The American University of Rome (AUR) is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of its academic community. As an American university operating outside the United States, we uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability in addressing issues related to sexual harassment. While we are not subject to Title IX regulations, we have established this policy to ensure a learning and working environment free from sexual misconduct.
This policy applies to all students at The American University of Rome. It outlines the university’s definitions of sexual harassment, grievance procedures, and the resources available to support those affected. Our commitment to a harassment-free campus is rooted in principles of fairness, due process, and the protection of individual rights.
By implementing this policy, The American University reinforces its dedication to upholding ethical and professional standards that align with both American values and international best practices.
Definition of Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment, or that unreasonably interferes with an individual’s academic, professional, or social participation in the university community. Such conduct may be verbal, non-verbal, physical, or digital and can occur in person or through electronic communication.
Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to:
- Unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
- Conduct that implicitly or explicitly affects an individual’s academic status, decisions, or opportunities based on submission to or rejection of such behavior.
- Unwelcome verbal or written remarks, gestures, or images of a sexual nature, including sexually explicit jokes, comments, or messages.
- The display or distribution of sexually suggestive materials in a manner that creates a hostile environment.
- Stalking, intimidation, or coercion of a sexual nature.
- Any form of sexual violence, including assault, exploitation, or coercion.
Sexual harassment may occur between individuals of any gender identity and can involve persons of different or the same status within the university community. It is assessed based on its impact rather than intent, and it may constitute a violation regardless of whether the behavior was intended to be offensive.
Enforcement of the Sexual Harassment Policy
AUR is committed to ensuring that all reports of sexual harassment are addressed promptly, fairly, and in accordance with established procedures. Students who experience or witness sexual harassment are required to submit a formal report to the Dean of Student Affairs.
By enforcing this policy, AUR reaffirms its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful academic environment for all members of its community.
Initiating a Grievance Procedure
Students who experience sexual harassment may initiate a formal complaint through the following procedures:
- Completing and submitting the Student Complaint Form, available on MyAUR (under the Student tab) or One Campus (under Forms).
- And/or contacting the Dean of Student Affairs - [email protected]
The Dean of Student Affairs will thoroughly assess the report and collaborate with the Sexual Misconduct Response Coordinator, who oversees and directs the investigative process. The grievance procedure begins with a formal Notice of Allegations issued to both the complainant and the respondent, ensuring they are informed of the claims and their rights. Following this, an Investigative Team led by the Sexual Misconduct Response Coordinator is appointed to conduct a formal investigation. This process is designed to uphold principles of fairness, confidentiality, and due process while providing support to all parties involved.
At the conclusion of the investigation, the Investigative Team will compile a detailed report outlining its findings. This report will be submitted to the Dean of Student Affairs who will evaluate the findings to determine whether a policy violation has occurred and, if so, will recommend an appropriate sanction to the President for final decision.
Timeline
The Investigative Team will establish a timeline for the expected conclusion of the investigation, which is generally set for one to two weeks. However, unforeseen obstacles may arise, potentially extending the duration of the process. In such cases, all parties involved will be promptly informed of any delays and the revised timeline.
During the course of the investigation, the university will make every effort to protect the parties involved. This may include measures such as changing class schedules, restricting access to certain areas of the campus, limiting participation in social activities, or making adjustments to campus housing arrangements, as necessary, to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.
Support Resources
- The American University of Rome offers free, confidential psychological services to its students. Two certified counselors, Irene Agnello ([email protected]) and Rose Kazma ([email protected]), provide non-medical counseling by appointment. They meet with students in the studio located in the library. To schedule an appointment, please contact them directly via email.
- A qualified medical doctor is available on campus for students, free of charge, by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, please email [email protected]. Please note that Student Life staff will be reviewing these emails. You are not required to disclose the reason for your appointment, but if you choose to do so, rest assured that all information will be kept confidential.
· Medical advice from the AUR doctor is available to all students through free online consultations, 24/7, at (+39) 320-406-5709. The doctor will inform you if there are any fees for house calls, referrals, or other services.
· The AUR psychiatrist, is available on campus for students, free of charge, by appointment only. TO schedule an appointment, please email [email protected]
· Be Free Cooperativa is an association in Rome that works with victims of gender-based violence. They have a helpdesk at San Camillo hospital and a 24/7 hotline, +39-327-360-3369.
Confidentiality
To the extent permitted by the Italian and European privacy laws (Art. 13 law degree of June 30, 2003, n.196, and EU law 2016/679), the confidentiality of all persons involved in a discrimination, harassment or sexual harassment investigation or complaint will be observed, except insofar as information needs to be disclosed so that the University may effectively and adequately investigate the matter or take appropriate corrective measures. It is understood that when a discrimination, harassment or sexual harassment incident is reported to any University employee, that person has a duty to convey the information to the appropriate University authority for action.
Retaliation
Individuals who file a complaint of sexual harassment, as well as those who cooperate in the university’s investigation and resolution process, shall be protected from any form of retaliation. This protection applies regardless of whether the complaint is ultimately substantiated.
False Complaints
Students who knowingly submit a false complaint of sexual harassment, or who deliberately provide false information or attempt to mislead university officials during an investigation, will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion.