Options and Resources

It is important that all members of the university community work and learn in environments that are respectful and inclusive. Anyone with concerns or questions about possible harassment should report them immediately. There are many options available for addressing problem behaviors. It is against federal law and Virginia Tech policy to retaliate against anyone for taking steps to stop discrimination or discriminatory harassment.

There are a wide range of approaches to dealing with problems in an academic or work environment that may resolve issues without having to take formal steps of bringing a complaint.

• Tell the person directly, as soon as possible, that their behavior is a problem.
• Where appropriate, mediation and other conflict resolution approaches can be highly effective options for resolving problem situations where communication has broken down between people.
• Referral to other resources such as Employee Relations or the Office for Equity and Accessibility.
• Provide general training for the entire unit or department.
• File a formal complaint with the Office for Equity and Accessibility.
  • This option is available to all members of the Virginia Tech community, including wage and probationary employees.
• A formal investigation can be conducted by the Office for Equity and Accessibility at the request of the individual’s department or initiated by the Office for Equity and Accessibility.
• File a grievance through the individual’s department.
• Contact the police, especially if there are concerns about safety or criminal behavior.
• File a lawsuit.
• File a charge against the university through an external agency such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the Virginia Human Rights Council.
• For students, file a charge against Virginia Tech with the United States Department of Education Office of Civil Rights.
• Any person with a concern about a student’s behavior should contact the Dean of Students Office or the Office of Student Conduct.

Resources