Romantic and/or sexual relationships between an employee and a student are relationships between individuals in inherently unequal positions. No employee shall engage in or solicit a romantic and/or sexual relationship (consensual or otherwise) with a student. Romantic and/or sexual relationships between a student and an employee are forbidden as unprofessional conduct and are in opposition to the Mission of the College. An “employee” includes any College staff, administrator, or faculty. A “student” includes any undergraduate or graduate student. The consensual nature of such a relationship does not constitute a defense to a complaint of sexual harassment, sexual assault, or related unprofessional conduct. This policy is not applicable in situations where the employee and the student are legally married.
Any violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination even for a first offense.