Consensual Romantic or Sexual Relationship Policy (2/20/19)

Overview:

This policy outlines limitations to ensure that the academic, co-curricular and work environment remains free from real or perceived conflicts of interest, favoritism, and exploitation as the result of a consensual romantic or sexual relationship. For purposes of this policy, consensual romantic or sexual relationship is defined as a relationship of a romantic, dating and/or sexual nature entered into electronically or face-to-face with consent of both parties. This applies to employee/employee; employee/student; supervisor/employee; coach/student; manager/employee; and manager/student relationships as well.

There are special risks associated with any sexual or romantic relationship between individuals in inherently unequal positions of power. These types of relationships may be subject to concerns about the validity of consent and unfair treatment of other students or employees. Such relationships can undermine the atmosphere of trust essential to the educational process and the employment relationship. Relationships between people with differing power distinctions may be less consensual than the person in the position of greater power perceives. The apparent consensual nature of the relationship is inherently suspect due to the fundamental power differential of individuals in the relationship and it may be difficult, if not impossible, to establish consent.

Most romantic or sexual relationships between an employee/student are prohibited with only rare exceptions. A romantic or sexual relationship between an employee/student is strongly discouraged.

Romantic or sexual relationships between employees working in the same department who do not have direct supervisory or managerial responsibilities for one another should be avoided.