1700 - Diversity Awareness Policy

 

McNeese State University recognizes that members of the University community represent diverse groups.  The University further recognizes that, in a pluralistic society such as ours, these differences must be recognized and respected by those who intend to be part of the University community.

 

It is not the intent of the University to dictate feelings or to mandate how individuals in their personal lives should interact with others. It is, however, the intent of the University that diversity awareness be regarded as important to the education of its students.  Our ability to work in a pluralistic society demands no less.

 

It is with this in mind that the University has established the following programs and procedures to assist the university community in the accomplishment of its mission.

 

Incorporation

This "Diversity Awareness Policy" shall be incorporated into the Faculty/Staff Handbook, the Code of Student Conduct, Classified Civil Service Handbook and any other appropriate policy manuals that govern or grievance procedures relating to University employees and/or students.  This policy shall also be made a part of every organization chartered by McNeese State University.  Any group or individual wishing to operate under the aegis of the University or to use the University's facilities must abide by this policy.

 

Standards of Behavior

A.                 Discriminatory Acts

The commission of any act that discriminates against or harasses another in relation to race, ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability or age will not be tolerated.

 

B.                 Filing Grievance

Any student/organization or faculty/staff member who believes that he/she has been the object of harassment or discrimination by any other student/organization or faculty/staff member, should present those allegations in writing and are to be resolved within existing University procedures.

 

Should the person making the accusations suffer harassment or discrimination as a result of filing the complaint, the University will view such actions as most severe and will seek the maximum sanction permitted.

 

 

C.                 Consequences

Students

Where harassment or discrimination as described above has occurred, the University may require appropriate remedies and/or may take disciplinary action against the offending student(s) or organization(s).  All managers and supervisors must report within three (3) working days actual or alleged violations to the Office of Human Resources and Social Equity.

 

Faculty

Harassment or discrimination by any faculty or staff member of the University may be cause for discharge, termination of contract, demotion or written reprimand.

 

In addition, that individual, as well as the University, may be held responsible for any legal claims that may arise.

 

In light of the special authority and influence a faculty member has over his/her students, the faculty member should be particularly sensitive to the potential problems associated with dating a student in his/her class and would be well advised to avoid such contact while the student is enrolled in his/her class.

 

 

 

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