Faculty Grievance for Discrimination and Harassment (Including Sexual Harassment)

A34F

The University seeks to provide an educational community and workplace free of prohibited discrimination and harassment. To that end, it has adopted the following nondiscrimination statement: “Elon University does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, creed, sex, national or ethnic origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran’s status (collectively, “protected categories”) in the recruitment and admission of students, the recruitment and employment of faculty and staff, or the operation of any of its programs.” Consistent with our nondiscrimination statement, the University does not tolerate the discrimination or harassment of any student, University employee or other individuals associated with the University including, but not limited to, vendors, contractors, and guests on the basis of membership in any of these protected categories.

A24A

Discrimination. Prohibited discrimination occurs when an individual suffers an adverse employment, academic, or other decision based on protected categories.

Harassment is defined as conduct (including verbal, written, visual, or physical conduct) that denigrates or shows hostility against an individual based on their membership in one or more protected categories when such conduct has the purpose or effect of:

• unreasonably interfering with their work or academic performance, or
• creating an intimidating, hostile, humiliating, or offensive working, living or learning environment.

Sexual harassment is a particular type of harassment and is a form of prohibited sex discrimination. Sexual harassment includes sexual violence.

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 specifically prohibits sexual harassment, i.e. unwelcome conduct on the basis of sex that is severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that creates a hostile environment that effectively denies a person  equal access to an educational program or activity. Title IX applies to sexual harassment that occurs in the following circumstances:

• On-Campus,
• An educational program or activity which includes any building owned or controlled by a student organization  that is officially recognized by Elon University
• Against a person who is located in the U.S.
• These instances of prohibited conduct as applied through the terms above will be addressed through the Title IX Process and Procedure section of the Title IX and Sexual Misconduct  and Gender-Based Policy.

Reports of sexual misconduct or gender-based violence allegedly perpetuated by faculty that allege behavior outside the scope of federal Title IX regulations, will follow this grievance process outlined below.

Sexual harassment, outside the scope of Title IX, is unwelcome, sexual, sex-based and/or gender-based verbal, written, online and/or physical conduct..

• Sexual harassment can take the form of quid pro quo harassment, retaliatory harassment and/or creates a hostile environment. 
• Sex/Gender-Based Harassment is defined as unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be severe or pervasive, or objectively offensive that it unreasonably interferes with an individual's performance or creates and intimidating, hostile or abusive working or learning environment.
• The determination of whether an environment is "hostile" must be based on the totality of the circumstances. These circumstances include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • The frequency of the conduct
  • The nature and severity of the conduct
  • Whether the conduct was physically threatening
  • Whether the conduct was humiliating
  • The effect of the conduct on the alleged victim's mental or emotional state
  • Whether the conduct was directed at more than one person
  • Whether the conduct arose in the context of other discriminatory conduct
  • Whether the conduct unreasonably interfered with the Complainant's educational or work performance
• Quid Pro Quo Harassment is unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature by a person having power or authority over another or when submission to such sexual conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of rating or evaluating  an individual's educational or employment progress, development, or performance. This includes when submission to such conduct would be a condition for access to receiving the benefits of any educational or employment program.

A23M

Any member of the University may file a complaint of discrimination or harassment. The University has a duty to investigate all alleged incidents of prohibited harassment or discrimination in violation of its policy and reserves the right to act as complainant if the University becomes aware of alleged violations of this policy. Because some actions reported under this policy may also involve potential criminal conduct, the University, consistent with applicable law, will determine whether appropriate law enforcement or other authorities ought to be notified. The University will follow its processes for the investigation and redressing of such allegations even when law enforcement authorities are involved. Regardless of pending criminal investigation, the University is obligated to investigate claims and take corrective action to ensure a working and learning environment that is free from discrimination or harassment. All members of the Elon community are expected to cooperate in the resolution or investigation of complaints of harassment and discrimination.

A34R

A complaint of discrimination or harassment should be submitted pursuant to this policy as soon after the offending conduct as possible in order to allow for an effective investigation, appropriate resolution to the complaint, and prevention of recurrence. Complaints received more than one year after the occurrence may be difficult to investigate due to such factors as passage of time, availability of witnesses and relevant information, and opportunity to take remedial action (such as when the student or employee are no longer at the University).

A35E

All people involved in the grievance process related to claims of discrimination or harassment are expected to maintain confidentiality regarding information related to the claims to the extent that such confidentiality does not contradict or undermine the University’s responsibility to respond effectively to the complaint or to comply with the law. An individual’s requests regarding the confidentiality of reports of discrimination or harassment will be considered in determining an appropriate response; however, such requests will be considered in the dual contexts of the University’s legal obligation to ensure a working and learning environment that is free from discrimination or harassment and the due process rights of the accused to be informed of the allegations and their source. Some level of disclosure may be necessary to ensure a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation.

A32U

The University does not allow the filing of false, frivolous, or malicious complaints under this policy. Those bringing such complaints are subject to discipline, up to and including dismissal.

A28T

The University provides educational and training programs and victim resources  to prevent harassment and discrimination. The University may, after becoming aware of an alleged violation of this policy, take appropriate action to ensure safety and prevent retaliation. Such interim actions may include placing the accused on administrative leave, reassignment, or authorizing other types of temporary measures while an investigation is pending, including but not limited to “no contact” instructions.

Should it be determined that a violation of the University policy on discrimination or harassment has occurred, appropriate action will be taken and will reflect the severity of the incident and any past discrimination or harassment offenses. Possible actions will include, but are not limited to, written warning placed in the personnel file, reassignment of duties, suspension without pay, demotion, removal from a portion of assigned duties, appropriate professional training, and dismissal. The resolution of all claims, whether via the informal or formal procedures outlined below, must fulfill the University’s responsibilities to 1) prevent future discrimination and harassment, 2) prevent the creation of a hostile environment, and 3) ameliorate any negative effects of the discrimination or harassment in question. Determinations of responsibility or non-responsibility for harassment or discrimination will be made using the preponderance of evidence standard. Claims of sexual harassment that fall under Title IX  will be handled in accordance with the Title IX process and procedures under the Title IX and Sexual Misconduct and Gender-based Violence Policy. Claims of discrimination regarding disability, including failure to provide appropriate accommodations approved through published procedures, will be handled in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Acts. For additional information refer to Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy and  disabilities services policies and procedures .

A33Q

The University prohibits retaliation against a member of the Elon community because they (a) made a complaint of discrimination or harassment in good faith, (b) assisted someone with a complaint of discrimination or harassment, or (c) participated in any manner in an investigation or resolution of a complaint of discrimination or harassment. Examples of such prohibited retaliation include such actions as threats, intimidation, reprisals, adverse employment actions, or adverse educational actions due to participation under this policy. Retaliation is a violation of this policy and should be reported under this policy. The University will take corrective action, including disciplinary action up to termination for retaliation prohibited by this policy.

A35Q

Any member of the University community who believes that they have been the victim of discrimination or harassment, particularly sexual harassment, is encouraged to seek information and support from members of the institution who can legally provide confidentiality due to their training and position, such as members of the Counseling Center, medical providers, clergy on the religious and spiritual life staff, or the coordinator for student development – violence prevention. Because of the confidentiality afforded these resources, those who believe they are victims of violations of this policy should be aware these resource people cannot report the alleged harassment or discrimination to the University. To ensure a report to the University, members of the University community should follow the procedures listed below.

A25S

This procedure applies to any complaints of violations of  University policy against discrimination or harassment  outside the scope of Title IX that is made against a University employee (including claims made by students). Claims of discrimination or harassment outside the scope of Title IX made against students will be addressed through the judicial process as identified in the Student Handbook. Claims of discrimination or harassment inside the scope of Title IX made against a University employee (including claims made by students) will be addressed through the Title IX process as identified in the Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy. 

While the University encourages informal resolution of complaints when possible, the grievant is not required to attempt the informal procedure prior to instigating the formal procedure. Moreover, the grievant retains the right to halt the informal procedure in favor of the formal process at any point in the process.

A member of the University community who wishes to make an official report of discrimination or harassment regarding a University employee may report the incident to any of the following people, who will refer the complaint to the Associate Director of Human Resources for Employee Relations (ADHRER) for follow-up: the ADHRER, the University’s Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinator(s). Upon receipt of the complaint, the ADHRER will contact the grievant to determine which of the two processes below they wish to initiate. In the event that the ADHRER is involved in the complaint, the Director of Human Resources will appoint a University official to carry out the duties of the ADHRER, as described below. Complaints of alleged policy violations by members of the President’s Senior Staff may follow the above stated channels, but may also be made to the President. Complaints of alleged policy violations by the President will be shared with the Chair of the University Board of Trustees.

If the complaint involves alleged criminal activity, for example sexual misconduct of a criminal nature, the matter may be reported to appropriate law enforcement authorities. Such complaints can be handled under this policy, through the criminal process alternatively, or under both processes.

The timelines for implementing the grievance procedures below are intended to allow for an expeditious and complete resolution of complaints. The University will make every reasonable effort to achieve resolution of complaints within these or shorter timeframes. However, during times when classes are not in session or at the end of an academic term, or depending on the ability of the University to conduct an effective investigation, timelines may be adjusted. The estimated timeframe for resolution of a complaint via the informal procedure is 30 calendar days from the report of an incident. The estimated timeframe for resolution of a complaint via the formal procedure is 90 calendar days or less from the time the ADHRER receives a written request to initiate the formal procedure. The estimated timeline for notification of the results of an appeal is 21 calendar days from the date the request for appeal is received by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. When the University cannot adhere to these estimated timelines, the grievant and accused will be notified and provided an anticipated completion date.

A22Y

The goal of the informal procedure is to resolve concerns at the earliest stage possible, with the cooperation of all parties involved. Informal resolution may include inquiry into the facts, but typically does not include a formal investigation. Allegations involving sexual assault may not be addressed using the informal procedure. Informal procedures involving conduct within the scope of Title IX will be addressed through the Title IX process as identified in the Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy.

Upon receiving the initial report from the grievant, the ADHRER will notify the University employee’s supervisor(s) (if the accused is a faculty member, this will usually be the Chair of the employee’s department and the Dean of the employee’s school or college). In cases involving sex discrimination or sexual harassment, the University’s Title IX Coordinator or  Deputy Coordinator will also be notified. The ADHRER will then take appropriate steps to resolve the concern, which may include holding discussions (either separately or together) with the grievant, the accused, the accused’s supervisor, and appropriate University officials. If the ADHRER is involved in the complaint or is unavailable to complete the informal procedure, the Director of Human Resources will assume the role of the ADHRER or will assign another Elon staff member to do so.

If the matter is resolved informally to the satisfaction of all parties, the supervisor of the accused (and, in instances of sexual discrimination or harassment, the University’s Title IX Coordinator or  Title IX Deputy Coordinator as applicable, and in cases of disabilities discrimination, the 504 Officer), in consultation with the ADHRER, will maintain a record of the resolution.

If the matter cannot be resolved informally to the satisfaction of all parties, or the grievant chooses the formal process at any time, the grievant may initiate the formal procedure described below by notifying the ADHRER.

A32B

If informal resolution is unsuccessful, unavailable (such as in the instance of sexual assault), or if the grievant chooses the formal procedure, a formal written complaint must be filed. The written complaint will include details of the allegations of violations of the University policy against harassment and discrimination including, but not limited to, the alleged violations, the date(s) and time(s) of the alleged violations and any witnesses or other relevant information about the complaint. If the ADHRER is involved in the complaint, the grievant should submit the statement to the Director of Human Resources. If the ADHRER is involved in the complaint or is unavailable to complete the investigation, the Director of Human Resources will investigate or assign an investigator who will then take on the duties of the ADHRER as described below.

Upon receipt of the written complaint, the ADHRER will notify the accused, the University accused employee’s supervisor(s), the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, and, if the case involves sex discrimination or sexual harassment, the University’s Title IX Coordinator  or Title IX Deputy Coordinator as applicable, and in cases of disabilities discrimination, the 504 Officer. The University will conduct a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation. Investigations involving conduct within the scope of Title IX will be addressed through the Title IX process as identified in  the Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy.

The ADHRER will undertake an investigation of the allegations contained in the written statement. Depending on the nature of the allegations, the investigation could include interviews with the grievant, the accused and/or witnesses; review of written documentation and relevant policies; and any other steps necessary to thoroughly investigate the allegations. The investigation will be conducted as expeditiously as possible, and the results of the investigation will be forwarded to the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. At that time, academic support staff with faculty rank or administrative staff with faculty rank who are accused of violating the policy must notify the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs whether they choose the faculty or staff procedure. Once notification is given, the accused may not change procedures.

Within 14 calendar days of the ADHRER’s receipt of the written complaint, the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs or their designee, will assemble a three-member hearing committee. One member of the committee will be a faculty member, appointed by the Chair of Academic Council; one member will be a staff member, appointed by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs from a list of staff recommended by the Staff Advisory Council; and one administrator, at the level of Assistant Dean or above, appointed by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. To be eligible for appointment, an appointee must have completed training in University discrimination and harassment policies and procedures (including Title IX and 504/ADA obligations), and have no conflict of interest in the complaint. If the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs finds an appointee to have a conflict of interest or be unable to complete the required training in a timely fashion, the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs will request an additional three names from the appointer and choose one name from that list.

The hearing committee will elect a Chair by majority vote who will serve as the convener of the committee.

The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs will provide the hearing committee with a copy of the results of the confidential investigation conducted by the ADHRER. After reviewing the results of the investigation, the committee will conduct a hearing regarding the allegations and investigation findings. Both the grievant and the accused each may be accompanied and advised at the hearing by a University student or employee; however, no attorneys may be present or participate in the hearing. Reasonable provisions will be made for University employees or students to appear as witnesses.

The hearing should normally be completed within 30 calendar days from the receipt of the investigation. Within 14 calendar days of the completion of the hearing, the committee will provide a written report of responsibility or non-responsibility for policy violations. The committee will provide a copy of this report to the grievant, the accused, the ADHRER, the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and, in cases involving sex discrimination or sexual harassment, the University’s Title IX Coordinator or Title IX Deputy Coordinator  as applicable, and in cases of disabilities discrimination, the 504 Officer. The committee will also issue a recommendation to the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs for sanctions, if any, to be assigned to the accused if the accused is found responsible for any alleged policy violation.

Either the grievant or the accused may request an appeal of the hearing committee’s finding of responsibility or non-responsibility by providing a written notice of appeal to the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs within seven calendar days of the Hearing Board’s determination. Appeals of the Hearing Board’s decision may only be made on the basis of 1) substantial violations of the procedures of this policy and/or 2) the emergence of new, material information relevant to the alleged policy violations. Written notice of appeal must identify the basis of the appeal and should include sufficient detail to support the appeal. If the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs is involved in the case, the grievant should submit the statement to the President of the University, who will then take on the duties of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs as described in this paragraph. Upon receipt of this written appeal, the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs will review the information from the formal procedure plus any new information submitted and permit the non-appealing party an opportunity to provide information relevant to the appeal if desired. The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs will make a final determination of responsibility and notify the grievant and accused of the outcome within 30 calendar days of receiving the request for appeal. If the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs upholds a decision of responsibility, she or he will assign sanctions and communicate in writing this decision and sanctions to the accused, the accused’s supervisor, the ADHRER, and, in cases involving sex discrimination or sexual harassment, the University’s Title IX Coordinator or Title IX /Deputy Coordinator as applicable, and in cases of disabilities discrimination, the 504 Officer. Any decision to issue sanctions by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs will be placed in the accused’s personnel file.

If no appeal is filed of the hearing committee findings, the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs will determine appropriate corrective actions including sanctions upon a review of the hearing committee findings and file. A written summary of corrective action will be provided to the accused, the accused’s supervisor, the ADHRER, and, in cases involving sex discrimination or sexual harassment, the University’s Title IX Coordinator or Title IX Deputy Coordinator as applicable, and in cases of disabilities discrimination, the 504 Officer within 14 calendar days of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs receiving the reports of the hearing committee.

The University will maintain documentation of the complaint, its investigation, and hearing process under this policy. In cases involving sex discrimination or sexual harassment, all documentation will be filed with the University’s Title IX Coordinator or Title IX Deputy Coordinator  as applicable, and in cases of disabilities discrimination, the 504 Officer.

A22H

The Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs is responsible for implementing sanctions and will follow all relevant existing procedures.

In cases where the sanctions assigned to the accused include either dismissal or suspension, the accused’s case may be heard by Academic Council (see Faculty Bylaws Article VI, Section 3 with the recommendation of the Council being provided to the President. Tenured faculty may also request that the Board of Trustees review the recommendations of Academic Council and the President, in accordance with procedure in the section on the Dismissal of Tenured Teaching Faculty .

In cases where the corrective actions assigned to the accused do not include either dismissal or suspension, and the accused believes that the corrective actions assigned are excessive or inappropriate, the accused can request that Academic Council serve as a hearing committee to review the assigned sanctions. The accused must make this request to the Chair of Academic Council within seven calendar days of the Provost’s determination of sanctions, and the Council must hold a hearing concerning the sanctions within 14 calendar days of receiving the request by the accused employee. The Council must then provide a written recommendation to the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs within seven calendar days of the conclusion of the hearing. Within seven calendar days of receiving the recommendation of Council, the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs will then provide a final written statement of sanctions to the accused, the accused’s supervisor, the ADHRER, and, in cases involving sex discrimination or sexual harassment, the University’s Title IX Coordinator of Title IX Deputy Coordinator as applicable, and in cases of disabilities discrimination, the 504 Officer.