Oregon State University is committed to creating and maintaining an equitable and inclusive working and learning environment. All individuals who are participating in university programs and activities, and all who apply to participate in university programs and activities, have the right to do so fully, free from sexual misconduct, discrimination, and retaliation.

The university prohibits sexual misconduct of any kind, including: sexual harassment; nonconsensual sexual contact, activity, or intercourse; intimate partner violence; sexual exploitation; and stalking. Such misconduct violates university policy and may also violate state or federal law. When sexual misconduct occurs, the university will take steps to stop, prevent recurrence, and remedy the impacts of such behavior.

Policy

View OSU's Sexual Misconduct and Discrimination Policy.

Reporting

The Office of Equal Opportunity and Access (EOA) documents any reports made to it that involve potential sexual misconduct or discrimination. Individuals are encouraged to promptly report concerns to EOA or to otherwise document any incidents involving conduct that may constitute sexual misconduct or discrimination.

EOA can provide information on available rights and resources and consultation to individuals even if they do not submit a formal complaint to EOA and even if they do not want to proceed with a resolution into their situation. For individuals seeking a resolution through EOA, several informal resolution options are available or EOA may proceed with an investigation when the alleged conduct could violate OSU policy.   

OSU employees who are represented by a union are encouraged to consult with their union steward or collective bargaining agreement immediately if they plan to bring a concern to EOA, as consulting with EOA may impact deadlines or employee rights under their respective collective bargaining agreement.

Filing a complaint of sexual misconduct or discrimination with EOA does not preclude you from filing a report with law enforcement or with other federal or state agencies. For more information, see Reporting Options.

Privacy

EOA is not a confidential office. We keep reports made to our office as private as possible during and after EOA’s involvement in a matter, but we may need to share information with other offices (such as Human Resources) so that we can best assist with the concern. We protect complaint and investigation information to the fullest extent allowed by relevant laws.

In order to protect the safety of the campus community, there are some circumstances under which EOA may need to proceed with an investigation or other appropriate action even if the person reporting specifically requests that the matter not be pursued. 

There are confidential offices on and off campus who can hear concerns and provide support, but are not required to take action with the information. See Sexual Misconduct Resources for confidential campus and community resources or contact the Center for Advocacy, Prevention & Education (CAPE), which is a confidential university resource available to all students and employees. 

Additional Information

EOA is OSU’s Title IX Office and the Executive Director of EOA is OSU’s Title IX Coordinator.