Pregnancy and Parenting

Title IX prohibits discrimination based on sex, including pregnancy, childbirth, related conditions, and parental status in all educational programs and activities. This includes academic, extracurricular, athletic, and other school-sponsored programs.

The Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978 (PDA) similarly prohibits employment discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. In alignment with these federal protections, UNF Policy 1.0040R prohibits discrimination based on sex, including pregnancy and parental status.

The University provides reasonable accommodations to students and employees for pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, unless doing so would impose an undue burden on the University or fundamentally alter an academic course or program.

It is a violation of University policy to deny employment or educational opportunities, or to engage in retaliation, based on pregnancy or related conditions, provided the individual can perform the essential functions of their position, with or without reasonable accommodation. Retaliation against individuals who request or use such accommodations is strictly prohibited.

Student requests for pregnancy-related accommodations, including those associated with childbirth, should be submitted to the Office of Title IX and Civil Rights.

Reasonable Accommodations

Individuals will be provided reasonable accommodations based on their pregnancy-related medical conditions and individual needs. Accommodations are determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary. Examples of reasonable accommodations include:

• Allowing breaks during class or work, as needed
• Rescheduling tests or examinations
• Excusing absences related to pregnancy or pregnancy-related medical conditions
• Providing alternative ways to complete missed coursework or assignments
• Adjusting work schedules
• Assigning temporary light duty, where appropriate
• Providing reasonable time and access to private spaces for lactation
• Modifying the physical environment, such as providing accessible seating

Lactation Room

UNF provides a dedicated lactation room on campus for use by faculty, staff, and students.

Nursing Nest - Founders Hall, Building 2, Room 2100 - The Nursing Nest is a private room designated as a lactation space allowing walk-ins and reservations for specific times. To reserve the room, requesters can call the Office of Community Engagement and Partnerships (CEP) at 904-620-2528. Parents are required to bring their own pumps.

Mother's Room - Hicks Hall, Building 53, Room 2662 - The Mother’s Room is a private area with lactation spaces. The room is always available on a first come, first served basis and its equipped with a slider indicating if the room is occupied or unoccupied. Nursing moms and parents can use the space and are required to bring their own pumps.

The lactation room includes the following amenities:

• Electrical outlet
• Lockable door for privacy
• Comfortable chair
• Sink