University Times

SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY (effective June 23, 1997)

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 federal, state 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 a thorough investigation 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. The 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.