Implementation of Reference Check Process to Discourage “Passing the Harasser” (PDAD&C #17)

From: Randy Boyagoda, Acting Vice-Provost, Faculty & Academic Life
Date: November 10, 2023
Re: Implementation of Reference Check Process to Discourage “Passing the Harasser” (PDAD&C #17)

I am writing in follow-up to PDAD&C #20 regarding the University’s initiative to discourage “passing the harasser.” In February 2023, language was added to appointment letter templates requiring external applicants to attest that there have been no substantiated findings of sexual misconduct against them, and that they are not the subject of an ongoing investigation or proceeding for sexual misconduct. I am pleased to inform you that the next stage in this initiative, a reference check process, is being incorporated into the current 2023-24 recruitment cycle.

This reference checking process is being piloted for new appointments with tenure at the ranks of associate professor and professor. An Authorization to Release Information Form has been developed and will be provided to successful candidates when they are extended an offer of employment. By signing this authorization form, the successful candidate will authorize the University to contact institutions where they previously held faculty appointments at any time in the past 10 years, for the purpose of confirming the accuracy of their attestation.

Please note that the attestation and reference checking processes will not apply to applicants who are existing faculty members, appointed pursuant to either the Policy and Procedures on Academic Appointments OR the Policy and Procedures on Employment Conditions of Part-Time Faculty, at the time an offer of employment is extended.

Questions concerning the attestation and/or authorization form, may be directed to Office of the Vice-Provost, Faculty & Academic Life (academic.hr@utoronto.ca).