Faculty and Staff Guide: Preventing and Responding to Sexual Harassment and Misconduct
We all play a role in creating a safe and respectful campus community. This guide outlines how faculty and staff can support individuals affected by sexual harassment or misconduct and how to respond appropriately.
- Support a Student or Employee
- Report
- Support Services
- Contact EOTIX
- How to Promote a Safe and Inclusive Environment
- University Sexual Misconduct Policies
How to Support a Student or Employee
Step 1: Support
- Listen without judgment
- Avoid shaming
- Inform them you may need to report to the EOTIX Office
- Let them know they have options and don’t need to decide immediately
Suggested language:
“Thank you for sharing this with me. I’m sorry this happened. How can I help you?”
“Before you share more, I want to let you know I may need to report this to the EOTIX Office. I still want to support you.”
Step 2: Refer
Connect the individual with appropriate resources.
Suggested language:
“There are on- and off-campus resources available, including confidential support.”
See resource list below.
Step 3: Follow-up
- Promptly notify the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (EOTIX)
- Share known details: names, dates, times, location, and nature of incident
- Inform the individual they will be contacted by EOTIX
Suggested language:
“I may have a duty to notify the EOTIX Office. They will reach out to offer assistance and options. You are not required to participate in any investigation.”
Email EOTIX or call 507-389-2986
Reporting Sexual Harassment or Misconduct
University Complaint
Complaints against students or employees can be submitted:
- In person at Morris Hall 014
- Online (anonymous option available): Submit a report
Criminal Complaint
All community members are encouraged to report criminal conduct to law enforcement.
- Mankato Police: 911 or 507-387-8791
- University Security (Can provide assistance with reporting to law enforcement): 507-389-2111
Support Services
On-Campus Confidential Resources
- Violence Awareness and Response Program (VARP): 507-389-5127
- Student Health Services: 507-389-6276
- Counseling Center: 507-389-1455
Off-Campus Resources
- Committee Against Domestic Abuse (CADA): 800-477-0466 (24/7)
- National Sexual Assault Hotline and anoymous online chat: Rainn.org or 800-656-HOPE
Contacting the Office of Equal Opportunity or Title IX
Any student or employee who knows of or receives information about sexual harassment or misconduct is strongly encouraged to report it. Campus Security Authorities (CSA) are required to report.
Benefits of reporting:
- Access to support and accommodations
- Awareness of options and resources
- Helps prevent future incidents
- Contributes to a safer campus
EOTIX may act even if the complainant requests no action. Support is available regardless of whether criminal, civil, or administrative remedies are pursued.
Email EOTIX or call 507-389-2986
Promoting a Safe and Inclusive Environment
Faculty and staff can help foster a respectful and inclusive environment by:
- Modeling respect, civility, and integrity
- Attending diversity and inclusion events
- Speaking up against inappropriate behavior
- Requesting training for your department: Email EOTIX
