Connecting with a Local Designated Resource (LDR)

Harvard maintains a network of Local Designated Resources (LDRs) who support the community by helping to address issues of discrimination and bullying. LDRs partner with community members, including students, to uphold the University’s commitment to providing a positive learning, teaching, and working environment for everyone.

The Local Designated Resources working within Harvard Griffin GSAS are available to:

• Receive disclosures regarding discrimination and bullying
• Provide supportive measures
• Answer questions about discrimination or bullying
• Facilitate informal resolutions
• Serve as the primary point of contact for filing formal complaints of discrimination and/or bullying

LDRs help address concerns about discrimination and bullying—even if you are unsure whether an incident rises to the level of a policy violation. Speaking with an LDR does not automatically launch an investigation or constitute the filing of a formal complaint.

You may access supportive measures before, during, or after filing a formal complaint, or without filing one at all. Even if you’re unsure whether a policy has been violated, you can contact an LDR to discuss:

• General information about how the University-wide Non-Discrimination and Anti-Bullying Policies and Procedures work
• Concerns about situations you have experienced, witnessed, or otherwise have knowledge of
• Concerns about your own actions
• Customized training, workshops, or initiatives for your department or group
• How to engage in a training

LDRs will listen, help you understand your options, provide direct support when applicable, and connect you to additional support and resources.

If you would like to connect with a Harvard Griffin GSAS Local Designated Resource, please contact Seth Avakian or Stephanie Clendenin.

What to Expect When You Contact an LDR for an Appointment

Harvard Griffin GSAS LDRs strive to return all emails within 24 hours, but may need additional time to respond to messages received overnight, on weekends, or during University holidays.

If you are in urgent need of assistance, please contact:

• Harvard University Police Department (HUPD): 617-495-1212
• CAMHS Cares Line: 617-495-2042
• Harvard University Health Services: 617-495-5711

LDRs can provide information about policies via email; however, many students find it more helpful to discuss their options and available resources in person, via Zoom, or by phone.

In-person meetings are typically hosted in private offices on the Cambridge campus, but an LDR can meet anywhere that is most comfortable for you, including the Longwood campus. Virtual meeting options are also available.

When you reach out to an LDR, you may disclose as much or as little information as you choose. 

During your conversation, an LDR may discuss one or more of the following topics, depending on what information you would like to receive:

• Non-discrimination and anti-bullying policies
• Options for informal resolution
• How to file a formal complaint
• Supportive measures (such as restrictions on contact, course schedule changes, or increased monitoring of certain areas of campus)
• Available resources at Harvard and/or outside the University

LDRs treat all information shared with the utmost discretion and sensitivity. You are welcome to contact an LDR to discuss the distinction between confidential and non-confidential resources and to identify the most appropriate support option for you.

What to Expect When You Request a Training or Presentation

LDRs are available to provide tailored presentations to your department, program, or group. Each presentation is designed to meet the needs of the audience—whether students, postdocs, faculty, staff, or visitors—and to ensure that the content is relevant and responsive to your goals.

Examples of presentation titles and topics include (but are not limited to):

• Non-Discrimination and Anti-Bullying Policies and Procedures
• Bystander Intervention: Promoting Civility and Equity
• Difficult Conversations and Sticky Situations (interactive, scenario-based)

Additional information and updates are provided by the Office for Community Support, Non-Discrimination, Rights and Responsibilities.