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Trinity International University Sexual Misconduct Policy Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favor, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. It is the policy of Trinity International University that sexual harassment, which is considered unlawful, whether by students, staff, or faculty, will not be tolerated. In furtherance of Trinity's policy to provide each student with an environment free from sexual harassment, Trinity requires that all students avoid any action or conduct which could be viewed as sexual harassment, including: Sexual behavior, whether verbal or physical, which is unwelcome, personally offensive, or creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive environment. This includes the display or dissemination of sexually explicit materials. Activities of this nature as against the law, serve no legitimate purpose, and have a disruptive effect on a student's ability to grow and flourish in a community who is learning and living together. Trinity takes allegations of sexual harassment very seriously and will actively investigate all sexual harassment complaints. If it is determined that sexual harassment has occurred, Trinity will take the appropriate disciplinary action, which may include probation. Any student who has a complaint of sexual harassment by anyone, including fellow students, faculty and staff, should immediately bring the matter to the attention of the Assistant Dean of Students or the Associate Dean of Students. All complaints will be handled with the utmost discretion and will receive a thorough investigation. Because of their sensitive nature, all complaints of sexual harassment will be investigated with care, and the privacy of the complaining person and the person accused of sexual harassment will be respected to the extent possible. Private information will not be released to third parties, except as provided by law. There shall be no retaliation against any student making a complaint of sexual harassment. Other Forms of Harassment Trinity believes all students have the right to live and learn in a safe environment where people treat each other with respect. Words or actions that are threatening, offensive, or intimidating and related to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, physical status, veteran status, or any other physical characteristic will not be tolerated. Any threat or act of physical violence is also forbidden. Disciplinary action will result in any violation of this policy. Sexual Assault: Sexual assault is a serious violation of Trinity International University's Community standards and will not be tolerated. Sexual assault is defined as sexual contact without consent. A student of the college community charged with sexual assault can be disciplined under the college's conduct code and may be prosecuted under Illinois criminal statutes. Even if the criminal justice authorities choose not to prosecute, the campus can pursue disciplinary action. This disciplinary action could result from dismissal from Trinity International University. The health and safety of our community is our highest priority. Additionally, we have an obligation to abide by the laws of the community. These laws may overlap with Trinity's rules, yet local and state laws operate independently from Trinity's expectations and one will not substitute for another. The college may pursue enforcement of its own rules whether or not legal proceedings are underway or are prospect, and may use information from third party sources, such as law enforcement agencies and the courts, to determine whether college rules have been broken. Trinity will make no attempt to shield members in the college community from the law, nor would it intervene in legal proceedings on behalf of a member of the community. Membership in the Trinity community does not exempt any student from local, state or federal laws. Trinity International University's commitment to victims of sexual assault:
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