Terminology & Definitions
- Complainant: Individual who is reported to have experienced prohibited conduct, regardless of whether the individual makes a report or seeks disciplinary action.
- Respondent: Individual who has been accused of prohibited conduct.
- Third party: Individual who is not a University student, faculty member, staff member, or volunteer engaged in University-sponsored events at the time of the alleged misconduct.
- Witness: Individual who may have information relevant to a report of prohibited conduct.
- Discrimination: Treating an individual differently and negatively by taking an injurious action because of his or her Protected Characteristics.
The definition of harassment provided in Baylor University’s Civil Rights Policy (“the Policy”) is intended to reflect that the University prohibits this form of misconduct. The University also prohibits other forms of related misconduct and/or crime, and prohibits related retaliation, as reflected in the Policy. For greater detail regarding the definitions, please see the Civil Rights Policy, which is available on the University Compliance and Risk Service's website.