Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is committed to fostering an environment that is safe and secure and free from sexual and gender-based discrimination and harassment, sexual violence, dating and domestic violence, stalking, and other related misconduct. The university recognizes its responsibility to increase awareness of such misconduct, prevent its occurrence, support victims, deal fairly and firmly with offenders, and diligently investigate reports of misconduct. In addressing these issues, all members of the university must come together to respect and care for one another in a manner consistent with our deeply held academic and community values.

This policy applies to student conduct and prohibits a broad range of behaviors focused on sex and/or gender that may or may not be sexual in nature. Sexual harassment, sexual violence, sexual exploitation, gender-based harassment, stalking, and relationship violence (including dating and domestic violence) are all forms of misconduct that are prohibited by this policy and will not be tolerated by the university.

This policy sets forth how the university defines and addresses sexual and gender-based harassment, sexual violence, stalking and relationship violence, and related misconduct involving university students. The policy first sets forth the scope and jurisdiction of the policy. It then defines key concepts, including the full range of prohibited conduct. Next, it describes reporting options, and explains whether and to what extent interactions with various resources are confidential. The policy then discusses the university¿s response procedures, including services and measures that may be available in particular cases to support and assist students and informal resolution options. The response procedures further describe the investigation, determination, sanctioning, and appeal processes for matters in which students are accused of prohibited conduct, as well as the affected students' rights in connection with the process. The last section is a comprehensive listing of resources available to students affected by sexual and gender-based harassment, sexual violence, sexual exploitation, stalking, and relationship violence.

The university is committed to the principles of academic freedom and believes that vigorous discussion and debate, as well as free inquiry and free expression, are an integral part of the university community.Nothing in the policy shall be construed to abridge academic freedom and inquiry, principles of free speech, or the university¿s educational mission.

Descriptions of violations and procedures for addressing violations are described in the policy.The full policy can be found at http://policies.rutgers.edu/sites/policies/files/10.3.12-current.pdf .