AA/13/AS/11/FAC/SEC - Power Disparity Resolution

Effective March 21, 2012

Resolved: That the Power Disparity Policy take effect upon approval by the President and be placed in the Faculty Handbook.

Power Disparity Policy

Sexual relations between students and faculty members with whom they also have an academic or evaluative relationship are fraught with the potential for exploitation. The respect and trust accorded a professor by a student, as well as the power exercised by the professor in an academic or evaluative role, make voluntary consent by the student suspect. Even when both parties initially have consented, the development of a sexual relationship renders both the faculty member and the institution vulnerable to possible later allegations of sexual harassment in light of the significant power differential that exists between faculty members and students.

In their relationships with students, members of the faculty are expected to be aware of their professional responsibilities and to avoid apparent or actual conflict of interest, favoritism, or bias. When a sexual relationship exists, the faculty member shall take effective steps to ensure unbiased evaluation and supervision of the student.

Review History: Approved by the Academic Senate on February 14, 2012. Approved by President Hamid Shirvani on March 21, 2012

Academic Affairs Division has the primary responsibility for this policy.

Attachment(s): AA/13/AS/11/FAC/SEC - Power Disparity Resolution  

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