Sexual Harassment Policy
 WLU is committed to providing an environment for study, teaching, research, work, and
recreation for all members of the University community that is supportive of professional and
personal development and free from sexual harassment. As such, the University does not
condone behaviour on campus that may undermine work relationships or academic achievement
and by this Policy declares that it will not tolerate any form of sexual harassment.  (Sexual
Harassment Policy and Procedures, WLU, February 1991)

    Sexual harassment is any conduct of a sexual nature such as, but not limited
to: sexual abuse, verbal abuse or threats, unwelcome sexual invitations or requests, demands for
sexual favours, or unwelcome and repeated innuendos or taunting about a person's body,
appearance, or sexual orientation.

    Harassment can occur when such conduct 1) is used as a condition of
academic status, grades, etc., 2) interferes with the student's academic performance, or 3)
creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive academic environment.

    Students can consult with a Sexual Harassment Officer for information,
advice, informal problem solving or to lodge a formal complaint.
 Contact:
 Dr. Leslie O'Dell or Dr. Dale Fogle, Sexual Harrassment Officers
202
Regina Street, Room 109
Phone: 884-0710, ext. 6979 (at any time)
Office of the Ombudsperson
Office Location:202 Regina Street, Room 109
Telephone: (519) 884-0710, ext. 6107
Office Hours: Monday to Friday - by appointment.
The following are excerpts from the Terms of Reference for the Ombudsperson at Wilfrid
Laurier University. A copy of the complete Terms of Reference for the Office of the
Ombudsperson may be obtained from the office.
Consulting the Ombudsperson is not a substitute for first seeking help or information through
normal channels.
The services of the Ombudsperson will be available to the staff, faculty and students at Wilfrid
Laurier University.
The Ombudsperson is responsible for the development, recommendation and implementation of
appropriate procedures to protect those who use the services of the Office of the Ombudsperson.
These procedures are to include those relevant to race relations and any other University matters
(excepting those under the mandate of the Sexual Harassment Office and the Employment Equity
Co-ordinators).
The Ombudsperson will maintain the independence, objectivity and neutrality of the office at all
times in order to adequately investigate, or facilitate the investigation of, any complaint, inquiry
or grievance of an individual which may arise against the University or anyone in the University
exercising authority, or to provide information regarding complaints and suggestions about rights
and responsibilities at this university. The Ombudsperson may also, using discretion, initiate
inquiries.
The Ombudsperson will bring findings and recommendations to the attention of the President by
the most expeditious means possible, and to the University community at large to the extent that
is appropriate. In particular, the Ombudsperson shall identify and investigate any gaps and
inadequacies in existing University procedures and policies that might jeopardize the rights of
members of the Laurier community.
The Ombudsperson has no power to order changes in rules, regulations, policies or procedures.
The Ombudsperson has the power to investigate and to recommend.