About Us

The Office for Dispute Resolution (ODR) is a neutral body that impartially investigates complaints of sexual harassment and/or other sexual misconduct against students, staff, and, with most Schools, faculty. ODR investigations are handled by professional investigators working with the involved Schools and units. Any member of the Harvard community may reach out to ODR to request information or advice, including assistance in filing a formal complaint or in seeking informal resolution after a complaint has been filed. 

ODR operates under the Office of the Provost, working in partnership with the University’s Office for Gender Equity, Title IX Resource Coordinators, and other School or unit leadership. ODR staff are also trained to handle sensitive information with appropriate discretion. Although not a confidential resource, they protect and respect privacy to the greatest extent possible, sharing information only on a need to know basis. 

 

Our Staff

Nicole Newman, J.D.Nicole Newman, J.D.
Director, Office for Dispute Resolution

Nicole supervises the ODR staff, ensures timely and high-quality complaint resolution processes, and provides extensive University-wide training. Nicole came to ODR in 2017 with over six years of experience in civil rights investigations, including at the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination and at the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights, where cases involved all protected class statuses in education, employment, housing, and places of public accommodation. Read More.

Find contact information and learn more about the staff at the ODR. 
 

View all ODR staff