Sexual Harassment – Title IX

As expressed by the Faculty Council of Harvard College, “the determination of what constitutes sexual harassment will vary with particular circumstances, but it may be described generally as unwanted sexual behavior, such as physical or verbal comments or suggestions, which adversely affects the working or learning environment of an individual.” The administration of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health wishes to do everything it can to maintain an environment free from harassment. Sexual harassment, especially by persons with authority, be it faculty members or teaching assistants, will not be tolerated. For additional information, contact the Office for Gender Equity.

Anyone believing themselves to be a victim of sexual or gender-based harassment should seek assistance. This may take the form of just talking over the circumstances, informal counseling, or filing a formal complaint. Persons at the School who are ready to help students include Maritza Hernandez, associate dean for student services, at 617-432-4703; Luke Sutherland, housing coordinator, Title IX coordinator, at 617-432-5290; Jennifer Ivers, associate dean for faculty affairs, at 617-432-1381; Linda Picard, senior director of human resources, at 617-432-2719; the chair or director of the student’s department/program; or Melissa Brodrick, ombudsperson, at 617-432-4040. Often, an informal process can help remedy the situation, so do not hesitate to seek help.

To file a formal complaint, contact the University Title IX Coordinator:
Nicole Merhill
Smith Campus Center, Suite 901
1350 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Tel: 617-496-0200
Email: Titleix@harvard.edu

Office for Dispute Resolution
Smith Campus Center, Suite 935
1350 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Tel: 617-495-3786
Email: odr@harvard.edu
Web: www.odr.harvard.edu

For more information about your options and support services available to Harvard Chan School students, please visit the HSPCH Title IX Resource Coordinator website or the Office of Gender Equity website.