OCC Frequently Asked Questions
OCC is unprofessional, disruptive, or inappropriate behavior that may not be illegal or a policy violation, but is still harmful to the campus environment.
Examples include:
- Intimidation
- Bullying
- Bias-related incidents
- Microaggressions
- Harassment (not persistent/severe enough to violate the Nondiscrimination Policy)
What Can Be Reported?
- OCC should be reported when the behavior isn’t illegal or a policy violation but causes harm.
- Use the Employee Conduct Reporting Form if unsure. Complaints may be redirected if they fall under another policy (like Title IX or Student Conduct).
What Happens After Reporting?
- The concern is sent to the Responsible Administrator.
- If it's actually a policy violation, it’s redirected.
- Otherwise:
- An intake meeting may be scheduled.
- Supportive measures (temporary adjustments) may be offered.
- Facts may be gathered to assess the situation.
Who Handles It?
- University Personnel for employee-related concerns.
- Student Conduct for student-related concerns.
The Responsible Administrator will:
- Evaluate the situation.
- Recommend or initiate informal resolutions (training, facilitated discussion, etc.).
- Coordinate with other departments if needed.
How Is Validity Determined?
They will consider:
- Harm or threat level.
- Whether conduct breaches any laws or policies.
- Impact on freedom of speech/academic freedom.
- Context (student/employee role, work setting, etc.).
What is the Timeline?
- Acknowledgement: Within 3–5 business days.
- Resolution: Varies by case, depending on needed actions.
- If no reply within 5 business days, contact: equal-employment@sjsu.edu.
Retaliation & Anonymity
- Retaliation is prohibited.
- Anonymous reports are accepted, but may limit the ability to resolve the issue.
- Complainants may not know the full outcome, but will be informed that the matter was addressed.
Possible Outcomes (Non-Disciplinary)
- Training or coaching
- Mediation or facilitated conversations
- Workplace or class adjustments
- Performance improvement plans
- Temporary separation (if needed)
- Restorative processes
If You're Accused
- Participate respectfully in the process.
- You can share your perspective.
- You will not face disciplinary action for refusing optional trainings—but doing so could impact your professional standing.
Personnel Records
- For faculty, outcomes depend on union agreements.
- For other staff, standard personnel file rules apply.
- OCC findings alone don’t go into your file unless formal discipline is imposed.
Need More Help?
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408-924-2255 (during business hours)