Harassment procedures vary

The Oberlin College Sexual Offense Policy outlines informal and formal procedures for dealing with sexual harassment. Mitchell is the administrator who directly handles complaints of sexual harassment. According to the policy, anyone who feels that his or her "educational or work experience has been compromised by a sexual offense should contact the administrator or an advocate member of the Sexual Offense Review Committee (SORC)." But, "Any other member of the campus community who is aware of the occurence of a sexual offense should contact the administrator."

Mitchell also said that there is no requirement for how many complaints need to be filed before action is taken.

When seeking assistance from Mitchell, a complainant can request information only, informal procedures for dealing with a problem, or formal procedures.

If a student requests informal procedure, Mitchell then advises the complainant about the nature and appropriateness of informal conflict resolution procedures. In addition, Mitchell explains the formal procedures. The Sexual Offense Policy states that even if the complainant prefers to pursue informal procedures, the administrator may decide, after investigation, to file a formal complaint on behalf of the College.

Mitchell oversees informal conflict resolution attempts, though if a case is not resolved through informal procedures, Mitchell may determine whether the case deserves proceeding through formal procedures. The policy states, "Should the administrator determine that formal procedures are not warranted in a case which was not resolved through informal procedures, the complainant may still pursue formal procedures." Both parties, according to Mitchell, decide how to deal with the complaint.

To file a formal complaint, according to the Sexual Offense Policy, the complainant contacts Mitchell, who develops a written charge based on information given to her by the complainant. Before completion of the formal procedure the President of the College, exercising power provided in the College bylaws, may suspend a respondent or assign the respondent to other duties. If the respondent is a faculty member, the President shall make the determination concerning suspension in consultation with the appropriate divisional council and the GFC.

After a decision to press formal charges is made, Mitchell has five working days to deliver the written charge to the respondent and to notify Secretary of the College Robert Haslun that a charge has been filed. After notification of the charges, the respondent must contact Mitchell within three days to discuss the charges and procedure. Within 10 working days following delivery of the written charges, Haslun convenes the formal panel to review the respondent.

Though people are urged to bring their complaints to Mitchell, there is no requirement to do so.