It is important that all members of the UAA community understand what constitutes a sex offense, how to report sex offenses, and the potential consequences. Additionally, the University strongly encourages the reporting of sex offenses and provides intervention and referral services for victims.
It is the policy of the University that the sexual assault of one member of the academic community by another will not be tolerated by the University. This policy applies to all members of the campus community: students, faculty, and staff.
The term sexual assault, as used by UAA, encompasses the legal definitions of sexual assault contained in Alaska state statutes. It includes, but is not limited to: acquaintance or date rape, or rape by a stranger. Sexual assault is against the law and is defined as sexual misconduct that is forced or coerced against the will of the victim. The same definition applies regardless of whether the assailant is a stranger or an acquaintance (date, friend, or someone known casually). This type of threat may involve physical violence, coercion, or the threat of harm.
Reporting Sexual Offenses
A person who has been the victim of sexual assault should report the crime to the University Police Department or a local police agency. The Dean of Students Office, Student Health and Counseling Center, and Department of Residence Life may provide initial support services for students on the Anchorage campus. At community campuses, the local police should be contacted and campus-based counseling staff may serve as resources. Staff will serve in an advocacy role and help refer individuals for appropriate medical, police, judicial, and counseling services.
Those who report a sexual assault will be advised of the importance of preserving evidence which may be necessary to provide proof for prosecution. Sexual assault is a serious crime and victims frequently experience emotional trauma and medical consequences. Contacting resources enables victims to receive the professional help they may require. It does not commit the victim to further legal action.
Reported complaints of sexual assault will be investigated and to the extent possible, the identity of the individuals will be kept confidential. Whether or not criminal charges are in initiated, the victim's right to file a complaint through the student judicial system or employee grievance process remains.
Should the alleged misconduct of a student be subject to review through formal hearing procedures, the accused and accuser will be afforded the opportunity to present relevant information, be accompanied by a support person, and be apprised of the results of the disciplinary review. Upon request, as reasonably available, assistance will be provided in changing academic schedules and living arrangements.
In the event an accused person is found in violation of this policy, the entire range of sanctions outlined in the University student code of conduct may be considered including, but not limited to, disciplinary probation, suspension, or expulsion from the University. Should the alleged sexual assault involve an employee, sanctions will be determined under applicable employment contracts and agreements.
Sexual Harassment
In an effort to educate the campus community about sexual assault, acquaintance rape, and other sex offenses, campus sponsored prevention programs are offered on a regular basis during the semester. Additional information about the above policy, procedures, and prevention programs offered can be obtained from the Dean of Students Office, University Police Department, Department of Residence Life, and Office of Campus Diversity and Compliance.
Sexual assault may also be considered a violation of the University of Alaska's policy against sexual harassment. According to the University of Alaska, Board of Regents' policy (4.02.022), it is responsibility of faculty and staff members to behave in such a manner that their words or actions cannot reasonably be perceived as sexual coercive, abusive, or exploitive. Sexual harassment involves unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors when someone uses, threatens to use, or implies that submission to, or rejection of such conduct will have an impact on employment or academic decisions affecting the victim.
Sexual harassment also includes other verbal or physical conduct related to sex when such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual's performance at work or study by creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment in which to work, live, or learn. In this regard, sexual harassment is prohibited by UAA's Student Code of Conduct, which is applicable to all UAA students. The Office of Campus Diversity and Compliance, Dean of Students Office, and the appropriate dean's and director's offices can provide information and referral on issues of sexual harassment.
Advice and Assistance
If you need assistance regarding sexual assault or other sexual offenses, contact the University Police Department, the Anchorage Police Department or any of the numbers listed below.
Anchorage Campus Resources:
- Dean of Students Office 786-1214 V/TTY
- Department of Residence Life 751-7444 V/TTY
- Student Health and Counseling Center 786-4040 V/TTY
- University Police 786-1120 V/TTY
- Office of Campus Diversity and Compliance 786-4680 V/TTY
In the Anchorage Community:
- Abused Women’s Aid in Crisis, 272-0100 24-Hour crisis line or Inc.(AWAIC) 24-Hour crisis line 274-6882 TTY
- Anchorage Police Department 786-8500 V/TTY
- Men's and Women's Center 272-4822
- Sexual Assault & Incest Groups 276-7279
- Anchorage Community Mental Health Services 24-Hour emergency services 563-3200 V/TTY
- STAR 276-7273 24-Hour rape crisis line or 24-Hour crisis line 278-9988 TTY
