Vincennes University is committed to providing equal access to its educational programs, activities, and facilities to all otherwise qualified students without discrimination on the basis of race, national origin, color, creed, religion, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other category protected by applicable state or federal law.  An Equal Opportunity employer, the College also affirms its commitment to nondiscrimination in its employment policies and practices.  In compliance with Title IX (20 U.S.C Sec 1681 et seq.) Vincennes University prohibits sex discrimination, including sexual harassment. 

The University will conduct its programs, services and activities consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations and order and in conformance with the procedures and limitations as set forth in VU’s Equal Opportunity, Equal Access and Affirmative Action policy which provides specific contractual rights and remedies.  Additionally, the University promotes the full realization of equal employment opportunity for women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans through its affirmative action program. 

The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all members of the University community, including, but not limited to, members of the faculty and staff, students, guests of the University, and applicants for employment and admission.  In this regard, the University reaffirms the right of its students to live and learn, and its employees to teach and work, in an environment free from harassment and inappropriate and/or offensive comments or conduct. 

Harassing conduct may include, but is not limited to:

• Ethnic, racial, religious, age, disability, or sex-related jokes, epithets, stereotypes or slurs.
• Foul or abusive language.
• Offensive graffiti, cartoons, or posters. 
• Insulting or derogatory nicknames.
• Mimicking another. 
• Starting or spreading rumors
• Teasing about religious or cultural observances, retirement, age, ability to learn, or absenteeism. 
• Threatening or offensive mail, e-mail, voicemail, or messages. 

The University also recognizes the fundamental importance of the open and free exchange of ideas and opinion.  It recognizes that conflicts may arise between individuals’ desire to express their opinions and the right of individuals to be free from harassment.  The University also recognizes that every act that might be offensive to an individual or a group is not necessarily a violation of the law or of this policy.