For the first time, University of Connecticut's Board of trustees has introduced a new policy that puts an outright ban on romantic relationships between student and lecturers amid fears that it might influence students' careers.
"The power difference between faculty and staff as compared to students means that any romantic relationship between a faculty or staff member and a student is potentially exploitative or could at any time be perceived as exploitative," UConn President Susan Herbst said.
The rule, 'Policy Against Discrimination, Harassment and Inappropriate Romantic Relationships' defines romantic relationships as 'intimate, sexual, and/or any other type of amorous encounter or relationship, whether casual or serious, short-term or long-term.'
The university professors have three months to report if they are engaged in any relationship that blossomed before the introduction of the new policy. The authorities will not attempt to break the couple, but will make sure that the professor does not supervise the student.
If anyone is found guilty of violating the new principle, he/she could face disciplinary actions or might be fired.
Romantic relationships also are discouraged between staff members when one of them is the other's direct supervisor.
The policy clarifies "the University's expectations for an environment free from all forms of discrimination and discriminatory harassment," Herbst said.
"I think that there probably are other universities, too, that are getting up to speed on this, but ... most of the universities I've been at, and have been familiar with, this policy existed," said Associate Vice President Elizabeth Conkli. "We are ahead of other universities with regard to sexual harassment and sexual assault - not only our culture, but our policies and regulations. ... So we lead in some areas [but] in this one, I think we were a little slow."
