Sexual Harassment

The University regards such behavior, whether verbal or physical, as a violation of the standards of conduct required of all persons associated with the institution. Accordingly, those inflicting such behavior on others are subject to the full range of internal institutional disciplinary actions, including separation from the University. Likewise, acts of retaliation will be subject to the same range of disciplinary actions.

As noted in the Handbook for Faculty and Academic Administrators, Policies and Procedures, the Academic Bulletin, and other University publications, persons engaged in such harassment within the University setting are subject to the full range of internal institutional disciplinary actions, including separation from the institution. (Source: Almanac, Vol. 50, No. 20, February 3, 2004; http://www.upenn.edu/almanac/v50/n20/OR-harassment.html)

The following University resources are available to members of the University community who seek information and counseling about University policies on sexual harassment, standards of behavior, informal and formal mechanisms for resolving complaints and resources for complainants and respondents.

Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Programs

African-American Resource Center

PBH Employee Assistance Program

Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Center

Office of Staff and Labor Relations

Office of the Ombudsman

Division of Public Safety, Special Services

Penn Women's Center

Student Health Services

Office of the Vice Provost for Student Life




Non-Discrimination Policy Statement

The University of Pennsylvania values diversity and seeks talented students, faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds. The University of Pennsylvania does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, or status as a Vietnam Era Veteran or disabled veteran in the administration of educational policies, programs or activities; admissions policies; scholarship and loan awards; athletic, or other University administered programs or employment. (Source: Affirmative Action Handbook; http://www.upenn.edu/affirm-action/oaanondisstate.html)



Complaint Procedures

Informal Complaint Procedure

Students may bring grievances regarding harassment or discrimination to his/her department chair or coordinator, or directly to the Dean's Office. The School of Design's practice is to try and resolve the complaint at the department level. Department chairs and coordinators consult with the Dean's Office for guidance and advice when needed. Sensitive cases or complaints may come directly to the Dean's office for handling. If a matter remains unresolved, the Dean will appoint a fact finding body to review the case and make recommendations.

Formal Complaint

Harassment

When informal resolution is not chosen or is unsatisfactory, complainants are urged to use appropriate formal mechanisms as outlined in the University's harassment polices published in the Almanac, Vol. 50, No. 20, February 3, 2004; subparagraph III.C

Complaints by students of sexual harassment against a faculty or staff member may be made to the faculty member's department chair, a staff members supervisor, or to the Office of the Vice Provost for University Life. Grievances associated with sexual harassment in student employment may also fall within the purview of the Vice Provost for University Life.

A complaint of sexual harassment may be brought against a student by filing a complaint under the Charter of the University Student Judicial System.

Discrimination

Any student in the University who feels that he or she has been discriminated against by an individual or office acting for the University or that the University is not complying with the requirements of Title VI, Title IX, or the Rehabilitation Act, has a right to register a complaint and seek redress of his or her grievance. The student may take his/her complaint to:

Office of Affirmative Action
228 Sansom Place East 3600
Chestnut Street
215-898 6993 (voice)
http://www.upenn.edu/affirm-action/ .