Sexual harassment is a pernicious and destructive practice.  On a personal level, it diminishes the self-confidence and self-esteem of its victims, which generates anger, fear and humiliation.  It also diminishes the perpetrator and can damage his/her career and reputation.  On an organizational level, it can lead to low morale, decreased productivity and increased absenteeism.  It stands in direct opposition to the achievement of community and represents one of the oldest forms of discrimination. 

Sexual harassment liability may be incurred in two general situations:  1) the "quid pro quo" category, in which an employer/supervisor/professor makes sexual favors a condition of receiving a tangible benefit (such as job, promotion, recommendation or grade); and 2) the "hostile environment" category, in which the harassing action unreasonably interferes with one's work or studies or creates extreme discomfort. 

Prevention & Intervention 

Two factors should be considered in addressing the sexual harassment concerns for the Slippery Rock University campus: prevention and intervention. 

The university will continue to provide educational sessions designed for all campus community members on sexual harassment.  Periodic training should continue for managers.

he university will institute awareness education that would include multiple forms of information and involvement by multiple members of the campus community.  Programming might include workshops in assertiveness, guest speakers, focus groups, peer education, as well as inclusion in appropriate academic courses and focus weeks.  Areas that may assume some responsibility include the following:  Health Center, Women's Commission, Social Equity Office, APSCUF, AFSCME, SCUPA, Residence Life, Women's Center, Women's Studies and Alternative Lifestyles Union. 

The President's Commission for Women will be helpful in assisting with the education of the campus community regarding gender concerns. 

In support of the Slippery Rock University's sexual harassment policy which states that the university will "educate students, faculty and staff regarding what constitutes sexual harassment, and what steps will be taken to resolve complaints" the commission should work closely with the president and the director of social equity in selecting appropriate areas of emphasis each year.  

Students are especially vulnerable to sexual harassment, since they are dependent on faculty, staff and administrators for grades, recommendations and numerous other important services. 

Timely resolution to charges of sexual harassment are an essential element of any effective sexual harassment policy.  Investigations should be set in motion immediately upon receipt of a complaint and should be completed as quickly as possible.   Untoward delay or failure to conduct an adequate investigation or to formulate an appropriate remedy for sexual harassment increases the potential for further incidents, additional harm to the victim(s) and liability for the university.