Whom Should You Inform
In most instances, you will want to tell only those with a "need to know" about complaints of sexual harassment. For example, a department chair, a dean, or the director of a unit may need to be informed. You may need to consult with the Office of Affirmative Action. You should at all times be sensitive to privacy and confidentiality concerns. Do not discuss a sexual harassment complaint with anyone who is not a party to the complaint, a witness or those with a "need to know" such as those in your direct chain of command. You do not want to become the subject of a claim of defamation or invasion of privacy. During the investigation, request that the complainant and the alleged harasser respect each other's right to privacy.
Finally, everyone involved in a sexual harassment complaint, including the investigator, the victim, the alleged harasser, witnesses and co-workers may be affected by a sexual harassment complaint. There may be stress, hostility, fear, etc. Professionals at the Counseling Center and the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program are available to advise you and to provide counseling to anyone who needs it. Do not hesitate to contact those offices.