I work for a major university system and had to endure many Sexual Harassment seminars. Personality I think it’s 90% BS because of a few assholes whom never learned to when to stop or what’s appropriate. Nevertheless, our university defined Sexual Harassment simply as anything the victim claims made them uncomfortable or threatened in the campus environment. So anything from farts to non-PC class discussions to men looking at women as they walk by to ball scratching qualifies as “hostile environment,” AKA Sexual Harassment. I had a complain lodged against me for “hostile environment” due to a friggen poster of Sheila E playing percussion in the band room! Things were uncomfortable in the late 90s but I don’t hear much about this issue anymore.
Now if the OP’s story is accurate, obviously she overreacted. But I’m sure there’s more to this situation than he’s letting on and/or understands. What was the conversation about? Politics? Sex? Race? [or other hot button topics] Was the OP acting cocky, loud, overbearing and basically wearing out his welcome? After all, it was the vic’s home and a guest should be mindful of the host’s beliefs and sensitivities. I’ve seen similar problems many times in student group projects and usually the guy is clueless he’s offensive or acting like an ass. Sometimes it’s an innocent cultural clash of values. However, the OP knew damn well she was uncomfortable or unset and yet violated her personal space. And, judging from his large ego and attitude, he didn’t take the situation seriously, hence the dean’s threat of further action.
I seriously doubt mones can be blamed one iota for this situation. It was the OP’s behavior and lack of perception coupled with an ultra sensitive or easily threaten woman.