3.23. Sex Discrimination/Sexual Harassment

Federal and State law prohibits discrimination in employment and in the utilization of educational facilities because of sex. Such discrimination includes sexual harassment. The policy of Michigan Technological University is that sex discrimination/sexual harassment is prohibited.

Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcomed sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature when:

1. Submission to such conduct or communication is made a term or condition, either explicitly or implicitly, to obtain or retain employment, services, or access to educational facilities or services.
   
   
2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct or communication by an individual is used as a factor in decisions affecting the individual's employment, or receipt of services or education.
   
   
3. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's employment, or receipt of services or education, or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive employment, service, or education environment.

The mission of Michigan Technological University is to provide a quality education for its students and a fair and responsible work environment for its employees. Sexual discrimination/sexual harassment of employees by supervisors, students, or other employees, or of students by faculty, employees, or other students, is absolutely prohibited. Upon receipt of information that sexual discrimination/sexual harassment has occurred and after verification of such information, the University shall take prompt corrective action, up to and including dismissal from the University or discharge from University employment.

Students, faculty members, or employees who feel that they have been subjected to discrimination based on sex or sexual harassment, suspect that an unfounded discrimination complaint may be filed against them, or have been threatened with the filing of such a complaint should notify the Affirmative Action Officer as soon as possible.

Nothing in this policy will prevent persons involved in pursuing any legal remedy which might be available to them.

This policy shall be administered in accordance with procedures established by the Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs.