Investigators, Adjudicators, and Advisors Wanted!
The Institutional Equity Office (IEO) is actively seeking faculty and staff members who may be interested in serving in the vital role of co-investigator related to complaints of unlawful discrimination and related harassment on our campus. IEO is also looking for those who may be interested in serving as an advisor/support person for those parties as they navigate the complaint process in these types of situations.
As a University Investigator, you will receive annual training, periodic lunch and learn opportunities, and full access to the Institutional Equity Office for any guidance throughout the investigation process. Investigation topics include all prohibited conduct within the University’s Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy as well as the Sexual Harassment Policy. IEO utilizes a dual-investigation model, so you would not be a lone investigator for a case.
Not everyone feels prepared to take on traumatic disclosures, but this should not discourage anyone from voicing their interest. For those individuals who prefer not to investigate sexual misconduct matters, we would be happy to only assign other forms of discrimination and harassment.
Cases usually last between 45-90 days, and investigators would need to stay with a case until it is resolved. While these cases require some time commitment, they are not labor intensive and would not significantly interrupt your regular campus duties. Your acceptance to take on this role or an investigation should be approved by your supervisor.
IEO handles highly sensitive matters and Investigators must be able to keep details in strict confidence. Other desirable skills include:
- being able to build rapport quickly,
- contributing to trauma-informed interviews (there will be training on these techniques),
- deciphering between relevant and non-relevant information,
- following the facts where they lead, and
- writing neutral investigators' report.
Most importantly, you must have the ability to conduct an unbiased investigation.
Those who are trained as investigators can also serve in other cases as an advisor/support person. This role is voluntary. The role of an advisor/support person is to provide emotional support and help guide a party through the complaint process. This may look like brainstorming options, attending meetings, and participating in the hearing process. By understanding the investigation process, you will be better equipped to support those going through this process.
If you are interested in serving as an investigator or advisor/support person, or if you have questions, the IEO is happy to assist. Contact our Director of Institutional Equity, Chelsea Givens, at ccgivens@usi.edu or at 812-464-1703. Training for new investigators will be offered this summer, and we welcome those who would like to join.
