Forum:

This is a controversial topic. One can argue that if the faculty member is not teaching this student in any classes and both individuals are adults, then they should be allowed to engage in a romantic relationship. But you also have to think that this faculty member might have a way to influence other faculty members that are directly involved with this student. They might be professors for this students, etc. So, it is really tough for any universities to loosen this policy because they are afraid it will lead to more problems down the road.

This topic is important and the outcome of faculty student interaction can be mutually beneficial and may not be harmful if honesty is the watchword between the parties. If there is a standard law on academic integrity it must be observed everywhere and if the law allows meaningful non casual dirty relationship then the result can be marital but harassment, victimization or loose grading can easily be checked from graded scripts with dire consequences resulting for the individuals. Monitoring of academic quality is always very important and should not only be restricted to relationship.