Complainant

The individual who reports an act of discrimination or harassment.

Discrimination

Adverse action or unequal treatment of an individual or group based on protected characteristics.

Harassment

Unwelcome conduct directed toward an individual or group based on one or more characteristics when:

• Submission to or enduring such conduct becomes a condition for employment or participation in an educational program or activity; or
• The conduct is severe, persistent, or pervasive enough to interfere with work performance, academic success, or access to KSU benefits; or
• The conduct creates an environment that most reasonable people would find intimidating, hostile, or offensive.

Hostile Environment

A situation where unwelcome conduct based on a protected characteristic is sufficiently serious to deny or limit an individual's ability to work, learn, or participate in KSU programs or activities.

Protected Characteristic

A trait or attribute protected from discrimination by federal or state law, including race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, military service status, veteran status, physical or mental disability, age, political viewpoint, or social viewpoint.

Respondent

The individual who has been accused to be the perpetrator of conduct that could constitute discrimination or harassment.

Retaliation

Any adverse action taken against someone because they reported discrimination or harassment, participated in an investigation, or opposed discriminatory practices.

PROCESS:

Addressing Concerns Informally

Individuals experiencing discrimination or harassment who prefer not to file a formal complaint initially may:

• Discuss concerns with their supervisor, department chair, or dean for guidance; or
• Directly inform the person whose behavior is causing concern that the conduct is unwelcome and must stop.

Formal Complaint Procedure

The formal complaint process prioritizes factual accuracy, fair assessment, and appropriate resolution.