Message from President Dr. Doug Whitlock

Eastern Kentucky University is committed to maintaining a working and learning environment that is free of all forms of discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is counterproductive in any organization, especially one that is committed to creating and maintaining a community dedicated to the principles of civility and diversity in which students, faculty, and staff can work and study together in an atmosphere of mutual respect that is conducive to learning. Eastern Kentucky University does not tolerate sexual harassment. It violates personal rights and is prohibited by University policy. Sexual harassment may also be a violation of federal and state law. The University encourages education as the best way to prevent sexual harassment and work toward a harassment-free community.

In keeping with our commitment, the University has arranged for every employee and student to participate in an interactive, online training program called Preventing Sexual Harassment. This program outlines the current law on sexual harassment, the University’s Sexual Harassment Policy, and procedures for reporting sexual harassment. It also provides examples to illustrate behaviors that might reasonably be regarded as sexual harassment and therefore should be avoided. At the end of the training program you will be asked to complete a mastery test to demonstrate your knowledge of employment discrimination. You will receive a completion certificate after you have successfully completed the program.

If you have any questions after the course, I encourage you to seek additional information through the Equal Opportunity Office in Jones 106 or by phone at 622-8020.

We all share the responsibility to ensure that our community is free of sexual harassment and other conduct that detracts from our mission. I thank you for taking the time to be informed on this serious issue.

Dr. Doug Whitlock
President