Princeton University’s faculty this week approved a policy prohibiting professors from initiating or engaging in romantic or sexual relationships with graduate students, the institution announced. Professors were previously prohibited from being in relationships with graduate students over whom they had advising, instructional or supervisory responsibilities. Pre-existing relationships are exempted.

“This is an important step in ensuring that we create a safe, respectful and equitable learning environment for everyone on campus,” Sanjeev Kulkarni, dean of the faculty, said in an email to professors. Professor-undergraduate relationships already are banned. Princeton has informed graduate students that the prohibition falls on the faculty, and that graduate students will not face any related disciplinary consequences.