Interim Procedure Enhances UM's Response to Sexual Misconduct

Students, Colleagues, and Community Partners:

For decades, the University of Michigan has committed significant resources to addressing sexual misconduct. Still, we strive to improve our educational and support services for students, while taking active measures to prevent sexual misconduct altogether. Recent guidance from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights highlights the nationwide impact of sexual misconduct on campus and makes specific recommendations regarding how colleges and universities respond to sexual misconduct allegations.

Pursuant to this guidance, as well as our own ongoing commitment to creating an environment free from sexual misconduct, we developed a revised procedure, established on an interim basis, for addressing sexual misconduct allegations against students at the University of Michigan. This interim procedure supersedes the processes specific to sexual misconduct currently outlined in the Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities and is in effect until further notice.

Putting an interim policy in place allows us to engage the University community in a thoughtful discussion of how best to implement long-term changes specific to our campus that are both compliant with applicable authority and consistent with U-M values and traditions.

Regards,

E. Royster Harper, Vice President for Student Affairs
Suellyn Scarnecchia, Vice President and General Counsel