Climate Survey Findings on Sexual Misconduct

 

To: Members of the Campus Community

From: Daniel Diermeier, Provost

Subject: Climate Survey Findings on Sexual Misconduct

Date: October 15, 2019

 

The University of Chicago recognizes the critical importance of creating and sustaining an open environment where people can thrive and engage in inquiry and discourse as they pursue their academic ambitions. Acts of sexual misconduct, which encompass a range of conduct from sexual assault to sexual harassment, violate the standards of our community and are unacceptable. The University is fully committed to taking the necessary action to prevent, correct, and address acts of sexual misconduct.

 

Earlier this year, the University was one of 33 institutions to participate in the climate survey on sexual misconduct led by the Association of American Universities (AAU). Thirty-two percent of our undergraduate, graduate, and professional students took the survey. The results, summarized in a report available here, indicate that a number of our students have experienced some form of sexual misconduct during their time at the University. While consistent with findings from other AAU institutions, these results are deeply troubling.

 

I encourage everyone to review the summary report and become familiar with the University’s Policy on Harassment, Discrimination, and Sexual Misconduct. A Faculty Advisory Group will review the results in detail and partner with University leadership, faculty and student groups, and academic and administrative units to implement recommendations to improve campus programs, services, and prevention efforts. In addition, Kate Cagney, Chair of the Faculty Advisory Group, will discuss the results in a Community Conversation on October 21 from noon-1:00 p.m. in Classics 110. All students, faculty, and staff are invited to attend. You may RSVP here.

 

This report reflects our ongoing effort to enhance support for our community. Building on the 2015 campus climate survey on sexual misconduct, we have taken several steps, including establishing the Office for Sexual Misconduct and Support, implementing required annual training for all students, faculty, other academic appointees, postdoctoral researchers, and staff, and expanding our suite of resources and programming.

 

These survey results provide meaningful insight into students’ experiences, and we are grateful to students who shared their perspective.

 

For more information about resources and reporting options, please visit the Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Support website or the Office for Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Support, 5525 S. Ellis Ave., Suite B. You also can reach out directly to Bridget Collier, Associate Provost and Title IX Coordinator for the University.

 

Every member of our campus community has a role to play in helping to prevent misconduct. We must be resolute in our commitment to fostering a safe climate where people can participate in the life of the University free of unlawful harassment, discrimination, and sexual misconduct.