Local Designated Resources (LDRs)

Lead LDR
Cailin Burke
617-496-4444

For Students
Amy Davies
617-495-1337

For Faculty
Suzanne Cooper
617-495-0390

For Fellows
Tim Glynn-Burke
617-495-3260

For Staff
Jen Goodman
617-496-2231

For All Community Members
Pam Cozza
617-495-2592

The Harvard Kennedy School aspires to be a place for working and learning in which everyone can thrive.  To help achieve this goal, the University has adopted new policies and procedures to address discrimination and bullying in our community that go into effect on September 1, 2023. These policies went through extensive community review and community comment at every level of the organization, from the deans to approval by the Harvard Corporation. The process followed a nearly yearlong community review period that solicited input from students, faculty, staff, and researchers across the University. More information about the University’s policies can be found on the Office for Community Support, Non-Discrimination, Rights and Responsibilities webpage.  You may also download the NDAB resource guide.

These policies apply to all students, faculty, staff, fellows, and other members of the Harvard community across all Schools and units, including Harvard Kennedy School. The Office for Community Support, Non-Discrimination, Rights and Responsibilities, in collaboration with Local Designated Resources, will continue to gather input, expand training options, and offer opportunities for community engagement.

The implementation of these new policies is part of an ongoing commitment to foster an environment in which everyone can participate fully in the life of the University and Harvard Kennedy School. Local Designated Resources (LDRs) are HKS community members with whom you can discuss concerns and obtain information on available resources related to these new policies, as well as possible options for taking action. Please note that speaking to or making a report to an LDR does not in and of itself initiate an investigation or formal complaint.
 

How can I take action?

Here is a brief overview of options for taking action. We encourage you to speak with a Local Designated Resource (LDR) as a first step.

Option

Summary

Process

Get information and discuss concernLearn what the NDAB policies cover, talk to someone about your concern,
discuss options, and get information on
resources. 
  • Contact an LDR.
  • Discuss your concerns (this is not considered a formal complaint
    under the policies and does not automatically launch an investigation).
Informal ResolutionWork out a mutually agreed-upon solution to your concern.
  • Contact  an LDR.
  • The LDR will discuss possible options with you.
  • In many cases, the LDR will help you develop a plan to address your concern.
  • Informal resolutions that affect both parties are voluntary; the LDR will discuss with both parties (separately at first) if appropriate to develop a mutual resolution.
Supportive MeasuresRequest special temporary supportive measures related to your concern.
  • Contact LDR to discuss your concern and request supportive measures.
  • LDR will consult with you about what supportive measures may be appropriate and feasible.
Formal ComplaintIf efforts at informal resolution are unsuccessful or not feasible, you may file a formal complaint requesting that an alleged policy violation be investigated.
  • All formal complaints must be
    fled after consulting with an LDR. Additional requirements for formal complaints can be found in the NDAB policies.
  • The LDR will conduct an initial review to determine if, on the face of the complaint, it alleges a
    violation of applicable policy and warrants an investigation.
  • For more information about these procedures, please review the NDAB policies.