312. Policy on Consensual Relations between Employees and Students
In addition to prohibiting sexual harassment under the Policy on Unlawful Harassment and Unlawful Discrimination (Community Handbook Section 3.6.7), the University prohibits any consensual dating, romantic, or sexual relationship between an employee and a student over whom that employee has any instructional, supervisory, advising, or evaluative responsibility.
Such a relationship is fraught with problems, including the potential for exploitation, favoritism, and conflict of interest. The appearance of impropriety or unfairness may also adversely affect the learning and work environment for other students and employees.
This policy applies to faculty, staff, and student employees. Employees who violate this policy are subject to sanctions for misconduct under the policies of the Faculty Handbook, Staff Manual, or Student Employment Handbook, as appropriate to their employment status.
Employers or students with questions about this policy should contact the Office of Affirmative Action or the Department of Human Resources.
Policy Approved: October 23, 1998
Last Updated: May 7, 2007
Last Reviewed: June 30 2022