Sexual Misconduct

The Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment, and Related Misconduct (PPDHRM) governs allegations of sexual/gender-based harassment and applies to all members of the Duke community (faculty, staff and students (undergraduate, graduate and professional). This Policy prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or military status (collectively, “protected status” or “protected characteristics”). This prohibition includes discrimination and harassment based on the perception of an individual’s protected status, even if that perception is incorrect. The Policy also prohibits related misconduct, such as sexual assault, relationship violence, stalking, and retaliation. This Policy applies to all operations of Duke University and Duke University Health System. More information, please review the Policy on Prohibited Discrimination, Harassment, and Related Misconduct website. 

When the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards receives reports alleging sexual misconduct, a Dean of Students representative will contact the complainant to outline support options and inform the complainant about their option to contact the Office of Institutional Equity. The Office for Institutional Equity conducts any investigations under the PPDHRM.

Students are encouraged to seek supportive measures whether or not they choose to file a complaint. For additional information about policy, processes, support and reporting of sexual/gender-based violence, see Gender Violence Education and Outreach.