UC Merced is committed to the advancement, application, and transmission of knowledge and creative endeavors through academic and research excellence, and to creating a community where all individuals who participate in University programs and activities can work and learn together in an atmosphere free of discrimination, harassment, exploitation or intimidation.

The Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination (OPHD) contributes to this university commitment by overseeing campus compliance with the University of California and UC Merced policies prohibiting protected category discrimination and harassment (including sexual harassment and violence). Our oversight of these policies encompasses responding to and resolving reports of harassment and discrimination from students, staff, faculty, and visitors that are related to protected class and civil rights policies.