After reporting to OIEA a staff member will generally begin with a discussion with the individual bringing forward a concern. This discussion will assist both OIEA and the individual in determining the appropriate university resources and options for resolution.

OIEA staff may assist with providing supportive resources to individuals with concerns. This may include assisting with the resolution of concerns without the need for an investigation.

In some cases, further investigation of concerns is warranted. OIEA first considers whether the matter falls within OIEA’s jurisdiction (i.e., whether the concern is related to discrimination or harassment based on a protected characteristic, or related retaliation). If not, OIEA will provide the individual(s) bringing forward concern(s) with available resources, but will not investigate the matter further. However, OIEA may, in its discretion, refer the report to appropriate university offices for further review.

If OIEA determines that the facts as presented could constitute a violation of the university Policy Against Discrimination or Harassment and the matter is unable otherwise to be resolved, OIEA may proceed to conduct an investigation. OIEA will determine appropriate investigative steps, which may include interviewing parties and/or witnesses and obtaining and reviewing relevant documents or other materials.

Following an investigation, OIEA will discuss its findings and recommendations with the parties and other appropriate individuals and offices. Actions taken after an investigation may include, but are not limited to, providing resources and accommodations to impacted parties, implementing various remedial measures, such as training, facilitated dialogue and communication between impacted parties, and referral for possible additional investigation or discipline.  For faculty, discipline would proceed through the Faculty Standards of Conduct procedure; for staff, disciplinary matters would proceed through Human Resources; and for students, discipline would proceed through the relevant school student disciplinary procedure.