SACUA reviews harassment policy

In the spring of 1986, the Senate Advisory Committee on University Affairs released a statement on the University's policy regarding sexual relationships between faculty and students - that was the last time they addressed the issue.

Now, SACUA is considering adopting a revised statement that addresses faculty/student relationships in a stronger manner.

SACUA Chair Sherri Kossoudji said she definitely sees some problems with the 1986 statement. "Maybe it's time to look at it again," she said.

The SACUA statement, even though it has no administrative power, expresses the views of the committee which is the governing body for University faculty.

After SACUA released its statement concerning relationships between faculty and students, the University added a section to its Standard Practice Guide regarding sexual harassment which outlines policy in the matter.

According to the guide, University policy "precludes individuals from evaluating the work performance of others with whom they have intimate familial or close personal relationships."

The guide adds that consensual sexual relationships between faculty and students fall under this categorization and are thus subject to control under University policy.

It requires "disclosure to the appropriate administrative supervisor so that arrangements can be made for objective evaluation ... with regard to the student."

This policy largely drew upon SACUA statement's assertion that student-faculty relationships are "ultimately ... asymmetrical" and can lead to exploitation. Their statement urges the avoidance of these relationships.

Now, members of SACUA said they believe their position should be worded more strictly.

Although the statement may have been strong in 1986, the adoption of stronger statements by other national universities has prompted some to consider a revision.

But, SACUA is being careful not to overstep its limitations. Kossoudji, a Social Work professor, said, "Prohibiting student/faculty relationships would be dangerous."

Not everyone on SACUA agrees the committee should revise the statement.

Recognizing that the statement has no power to govern the acts of faculty and students, SACUA Executive Assistant Tom Schneider expressed his reluctance in supporting a revision.

"I believe the SACUA statement is nothing ... but an opinion statement," he said.

Jackie Lawson, the Dearborn campus representative, said she agrees.

"To rewrite a statement that carries no weight is meaningless," she said.

SACUA is reviewing over its options and have decided to seek outside input on the matter.

09-28-99