St. George’s University Policy on Non-Fraternization 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 the University that respect for the individual in the University community requires that amorous or sexual relationships not be conducted by persons in unequal positions. The University considers it inappropriate for any member of the faculty (including clinical tutors), 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 judgments or who may have real or perceived authority over the student. 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 or fraternization 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. In the case of a pre-existing relationship between a faculty member and a student or subordinate, the faculty member has an affirmative duty to disclose this relationship to the Dean’s Office so that any potential conflicts of interest can be resolved.