Relationships between individuals in
inherently unequal positions may undermine the real or perceived
integrity of the supervision and evaluation process, as well as
affect the trust inherent in the educational environment. It is the
policy of St. John's University that respect for the individual in
the University community require that amorous or sexual
relationships not be conducted by persons in unequal
positions.
The University considers it inappropriate
for any member of the faculty, administration, or staff to
establish an intimate relationship with a student, subordinate, or
colleague upon whose academic or work performance he or she will be
required to make professional judgements. The University considers
it a violation of this policy for any member of the faculty,
administration, or staff to offer or request sexual favors, make
sexual advances, or engage in sexual conduct, consensual or
otherwise, with a person who is:
- Enrolled in a class taught by the
faculty member or administrator
- Receiving academic advising or mentoring
from the faculty member or administrator
- Working for the faculty member,
administrator or staff
- Subject to any form of evaluation by the
faculty member, administrator or staff.
Please note that the list above is not
exhaustive, and other situations of fraternization may also result
in a violation of this policy. In all such circumstances, consent
may not be considered a defense against a charge of sexual
harassment in any proceeding conducted under this policy. The
determination of what constitutes sexual harassment depends on the
specific facts and the context within which the conduct
occurs.
Teaching and research fellows, doctoral
and graduate assistants, tutors, interns, and any other students
who perform work-related functions for the University are also
subject to this policy.