Student Handbook: Student Code of Conduct- Discrimination, including Harassment, Based on a Protected Class

Relevant Excerpt

Discrimination, of any kind, including harassment, based on a protected class is defined as unwelcome conduct (including any gesture, written, verbal or physical act), or any electronic communication (which includes, but is not limited to, e-mail, text messaging, and internet posting on web-sites or other social media) that is based on an individual’s sex, race, color, age, religion, national or ethnic origin (including shared ancestry), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, marital status, medical condition, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected classification, that is subjectively and objectively offensive and so severe or pervasive that it limits or denies a person’s ability to participate in or benefit from the educational program or activities, or that creates a work environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile, or abusive.

This type of discrimination can occur in any form and can be directed at individuals or groups. Depending on the severity of the circumstances, infractions may be resolved through a variety of methods ranging from informal, remedial and/or restorative steps, such as community information and education, counseling, or mediation, and up to and including formal College action, which may include but is not limited to investigation, temporary suspension, and sanctions/outcomes up to and including suspension or expulsion. 

Students should be aware that not all expressive conduct is compliant with the College’s expectations and policies as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct. Any speech or act that targets, harasses, or threatens any individuals or groups is prohibited. This includes but is not limited to: sharing the real-time location of individuals or groups with the intent to cause psychological or physical harm, doxing or revealing information that should reasonably be kept private, and other targeted and unwelcome conduct. Such speech includes all forms of communication, including but not limited to: face to face communication, written communication, electronic communication, and communication via social media accounts (whether personal or belonging to student groups). When harassment of this nature is exhibited toward protected classes, the behavior may also be subject to additional policy violations and procedures.