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 - Subscribe  - Contact Us  - Rate Card  - Place an Ad Archives      Revels      Classifieds      Real Estate      Menu Guide      Wedding      Weather      Subscribe      Contact Us May 25, 2005 SOU sexual harassment report headed to governor after focus group discussion Staff reports Despite a dearth of formal grievances, a draft report headed for the governor’s desk claims that some women at Southern Oregon University believe sexual harassment occurs more often than it is reported, mostly because of fear of retribution. The report claims that sexual harassment occurs is a source of concern for some students, faculty and staff, according to comments from focus groups convened to assess the problem. “There is also a fear that a complainant may not be taken seriously or be accused of provoking the harassing behavior, or the person complaining may be labeled as a complainer or ostracized,” the report, released Tuesday reads. “Some women feel no one is on their side.” Some 30 participants in six recent focus groups offered confidential responses to a series of questions about sexual harassment and consensual romantic or sexual relationships on campus. Many of the female members believed that incidents of sexual harassment aren’t reported because victims fear retribution such as lowered grades or being denied a needed class. Others believed that complaints against well-connected faculty members wouldn’t be taken seriously. Male participants perceived harassment as being less prevalent than women did. Men also felt that there were more resources available for women. Faculty and staff of both genders were concerned about the time it takes university officials to respond to complaints, although they also indicated they expected a thorough examination. The groups were held as part of SOU’s evaluation of campus sexual harassment policies and procedures. Gov. Ted Kulongoski this year ordered a systemwide review of the policies — and recommended changes — at the state’s seven public universities. SOU’s report will be included in a June 2 review by the state Board of Higher Education. Kulongoski’s request followed widespread publicity about the case of Western Oregon University professor Gary Welander, who was accused of sexually harassing a graduate student. DailyTidings.com Home Page Archives | Revels | Classifieds | Real Estate Guide | Weather | Subscribe | Contact Us Copyright 2005 Ashland Daily Tidings and Ottaway Newspapers All Rights Reserved Deep Muscle Stimulator Ceramic Piggy Banks FREE Entertainment Guide Women's & Men's Slippers Accelerate Weightloss Products Backpacks Generic Viagra Vegas Travel Guide Search Engine Optimization Sportsbook Absinthe Supply Student Loans Hotel & Airline Reservations African Safari Hammocks Helzberg Diamonds Online Casinos Community Bonus Casino King of Spirits ink cartridges Mortgage Calculator Security Systems Mailing Lists Click Here Advertisement .:Advertisements:. Site Search: RESOURCES - Mail Tribune News - ODOT Road Cams