Attendees: Deborah Aaron, Chao-Lin Chiu, David Crossman, Irene Frieze, Amy Knapp, Tom Metzger, Bruce Steele, Walt Stoy, Evelyn Talbott, Tony Silvestre

The minutes were reviewed, corrected and approved.

Business

Dr. Silvestre invited three students from the Rainbow Alliance to provide an information session concerning campus climate and Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgenders.

The past President noted that as president he played a quasi therapist role in conversations concerning the fear issue with some students. Some other students do not want to go to the counseling center for fear of reports. Mental health is a serious issue, there have been reports of individual threats, but these incidents were not officially given to police for fear of recognition. Many of the international students have fear of reprisal when they return to their home country. Dr. Silvestre indicated that the president should not be placed in the position of a trained therapist.

Dr. Talbott asked if there were any housing problems with transgender persons. The reply was that after the first year, individuals move off campus and it appears to be adequate.

The current President of Rainbow Alliance is not from Pittsburgh and has limited experience and time to be able to give directives concerning counseling and organizations where information could be obtained. Many incidents that have occurred may be transmitted to her but not reported.

Dr. Metzger asked if the incidences were increasing or decreasing (incidents such as harassment or any kind of violence). She did not know because of limited record keeping since students change yearly or every nine months. Most students want anonymity.

One of the students suggested that one person in the Provost's Office should be identified who could represent the student and the development of a central policy. He said that Resident Assistants are in fact trained with a 2-hour session.

Dr. Silvestre wanted to know how many students are active members of the Rainbow Alliance but there were no statistics available.

Dr. Talbott thanked the students for coming and reporting the information, and would speak at length with Dr. Daniel about this issue.

Dr. Chiu asked if there was a University Policy for Sexual Harassment or Discrimination Dr. Metzger said there was one in place but nothing can be acted upon unless something is reported.

Tony Silvestre believes that formal avenues should be known to all students, as well as, a complete and on-going educational program.

Drs. Talbott and Knapp will call Dr. Daniel for follow-up and information.

Dr. Daniel after their conversation stated that for faculty, staff and students:

"At any time, faculty, staff and students who are unsure about what to do, call:

_ Office of the Provost 624-0790 (Elizabeth Baranger)

_ Office of Affirmative Action 648-7860

_ Human Resources 624-8030

_ Office of General Counsel 624-5674

_ Faculty and staff Assistance Program (FSAP) 647-3327, or

_ The Dean of your unit.

_ Sexual Assault Service Office in Student Affairs"

Dr. Silvestre thanked the students for coming.

The next agenda item was Irene Frieze's request to brainstorm for ideas for "Examining the Roles of Women at Pitt" at the 2004 University Senate Plenary Session on April 7th at the William Pitt Union. The question is "How to best address the needs of women students in the classroom and outside the classroom." Please come with ideas and suggestions for the March meeting

One idea of Dr. Silvestre was the formation of a subcommittee to address women international students and their special issues.

A Complaint Office is needed. Dr. Metzger replied that there was an Ombudsman for classes and Andy Blair may be the person to contact for Personal Harassment. Dr. Talbott and Dr. Knapp will speak with Jack Daniel about this and suggested that a Sub Committee may be needed.

Next Meeting: Because of the Faculty Retreat on March 16th it will be March 23rd, A523 Crabtree/GSPH, 12 noon