October 13, 2017

Dear UD community,

Safety is our top priority at the University of Delaware, and we are committed to maintaining a campus community free of sexual misconduct.

Recently, news about Title IX, a federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in the University’s programs and activities, has created some confusion and concern about how colleges and universities handle sexual violence cases and about protections for victims and the accused. Adopted more than two years ago, our Sexual Misconduct Policy provides a fair, prompt and equitable investigation process for all parties involved, and offers access to resources and services for all members of the University community. We do not anticipate making changes to this policy based on recent guidance released by the U.S. Department of Education.

In addition to our policy, the University has a number of outreach programs to educate and protect our students, faculty and staff. The kNOw MORE campaign at UD raises awareness about sexual misconduct, as well as the need to support survivors of such acts. If you have not done so already, I ask you to visit kNOw MORE and pledge to end sexual misconduct in our community. I also encourage you to attend the Nov. 2 discussion on sexual assault prevention, featuring Lynn Rosenthal, former White House advisor and now Policy Director for the Biden Foundation's Violence Against Women Initiatives. The Sexual Assault Prevention and Education (SAPE) Committee provides resources and events to help students get involved in the prevention of sexual violence. Also, Sexual Offense Support (S.O.S.) offers programming related to healthy relationships, sexuality and consent. Other efforts include a bystander-intervention program, which is now part of our First Year Experience curriculum and is being provided to a variety of student groups. You can learn more about these initiatives and the Sexual Misconduct Policy from the Office of Equity and Inclusion.

Together, we can cultivate a campus climate that rejects sexual misconduct and supports survivors. Please be informed, be responsible, and be safe.

Sincerely,

Dennis Assanis President