Workplace Romantic/Sexual Relationships Policy

Responsible Office or Person: Human Resources

Date Revised: December 4, 2017

This policy applies to all employees without regard to the gender, sexual orientation or other protected characteristic of the individuals involved. Even when both parties have consented to the development of such a relationship, both parties will be held accountable for a violation of this policy, and may be subject to disciplinary action by their supervisors, up to and including termination.

Exemption

The following policy does not apply to employees or students who are married or in domestic partnerships (a domestic partnership is defined by Chapter 770 of the Wisconsin Statutes).

Romantic or Sexual Relationships Between Employees and Students

Implicit in the idea of professionalism is the recognition by those in positions of authority that in their relationships with others there is always an element of power. It is incumbent upon those with authority not to abuse, nor to seem to abuse, the power with which they are entrusted. Such relationships have the effect of undermining the atmosphere of trust on which the educational process and work environment depend. Therefore, romantic or sexual relationships are prohibited when they occur between any employee and student.

Even when both parties have consented to the development of such a relationship, it is the employee, by virtue of his or her violation of this policy, who will be held accountable and may be subject to disciplinary action by his or her supervisor(s), up to and including termination.

Romantic or Sexual Relationships Between Employees

Implicit in the idea of professionalism is the recognition by those in positions of authority that in their relationships with others there is always an element of power. It is incumbent upon those with authority not to abuse, nor to seem to abuse, the power with which they are entrusted.

Therefore the University prohibits an evaluative or supervisory relationship between employees where a romantic or sexual relationship exists. Should such a relationship develop, the employees each have the obligation to promptly disclose its existence to any of their supervisors or to Human Resources. The employees’ supervisors, in consultation with Human Resources and with the employees, will determine the appropriate steps to prevent a supervisory or evaluative role between employees in a romantic or sexual relations. Such measures may include potential transfer of one employee, reassignment, or separation from employment.

For the purposes of this policy, “student” includes all enrolled full or part-time undergraduate and graduate students.

For the purposes of this policy, “employee” includes full and part-time faculty (including adjunct), full and part-time administrative staff, full and part-time support staff and administrators.