I wanted to take this opportunity to update the community on the work that is currently being done to address the concerns raised as a result of the article “More Students Come Forward with Rape Stories” published in The Ithacan. A Sexual Assault Work Group has been meeting to discuss proposed changes to the Conduct Code and Judicial Hearing Processes for cases involving sexual assault. The Sexual Assault Work Group would like to invite interested community members to a town meeting on Tuesday, April 1, 2008, at 7 p.m. in Textor 102 to discuss ideas for potential changes.

 

Additionally, the RAs and professional staff in the Office of Residential Life have been working to develop some educational programming efforts on the topic of sexual assault. You will see new bulletin boards going up in all halls later in March, and Residential Life will be working collaboratively with the Health Promotions Office to encourage community involvement in programs offered for Sexual Assault Awareness Month, during April. The external review of the RA staff discipline process has already begun. The new discipline process will include a zero tolerance policy for RAs found responsible for violating Clery Act Crimes which include sexual assault.

While there is a lot of work still to be done, I wanted to take this opportunity to update you on our progress so far and encourage you to attend the town meeting on April 1, 2008.

 

Bonnie Solt Prunty

Director for the Offices of Residential Life and Judicial Affairs