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September 14, 2000

Sexual Harassment Policy Statement

Policy: The University of Pittsburgh is committed to the maintenance of a community free from all forms of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment violates University policy as well as state, federal and local laws. It is neither permitted nor condoned. The coverage of this policy extends to all faculty, researchers, staff, students, vendors, contractors and visitors to the University.

It is also a violation of the University of Pittsburgh's policy against sexual harassment for any employee or student at the University of Pittsburgh to attempt in any way to retaliate against a person who makes a claim of sexual harassment.

Any individual who, after thorough investigation and an informal or formal hearing, is found to have violated the University's policy against sexual harassment will be subject to disciplinary action, including, but not limited to reprimand, suspension, termination, or expulsion. Any disciplinary action taken will depend upon the severity of the offense.

Definition: Sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual advance, request for sexual favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: (1) Submission to such conduct is an explicit or implicit condition of employment or academic success; (2) Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as the basis for an employment or academic decision; or (3) Such conduct has the purpose or effect of (a) Unreasonably interfering with an individual's work or academic performance; or (b) Creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work or academic environment.

While sexual harassment most often takes place where there is a power differential between the persons involved, it also may occur between persons of the same status. Sexual harassment can occur on University premises or off campus at University sponsored events. It can occur between members of the same gender as well as between members of different genders.

Assistance: For further information or assistance regarding sexual harassment, please call any of the following resource staff:

Pittsburgh Campus —

Elaine Y. Frampton, Office of Affirmative Action, 412/648-7860

LaVerne Wheeler, Office of Human Resources, 412/624-8138

Elizabeth U. Baranger, Office of the Provost, 412/624-0790

University Student Judicial System , 412/648-7918

Bradford Campus —

K. James Evans or Holly J. Spittler, 814/362-3801

Greensburg Campus —

Joyce E. Bucchi, 724/836-9902

Judith A. Vollmer, 724/836-9894

Johnstown Campus —

Robert J. Yaskanich, 814/269-7119

Titusville Campus —

Christopher J. Coat, 814/827-4437.

For counseling services, please call any of the following offices:

University Counseling Center, 412/648-7930

Sexual Assault Services, 412/648-7856

Faculty and Staff Assistance Program, 412/647-3327 or 800/647-3327.

Filed under: Feature,Volume 33 Issue 2

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