Dear Students,

As I said I would, I’m writing to follow up on the important actions underway to address sexual violence. I would like to start, though, with a message about the value of community and ways we might work together as one community.

In times of conflict and disagreement, respecting the basic human rights and protections of all members of our community must remain at the forefront of our engagement, advocacy, and interaction. This includes the fundamental right to “redress grievances” and the equally important right to “due process.”  

In any process in which we engage, we must consider the intersectional histories of gender-based violence, racially based violence, and other forms of oppression and violence. In keeping with our robust institutional commitment to “move humankind forward,” we aim, at all times, to protect the well-being and rights of all members of our community. We must unite our efforts and create opportunities to address concerns, provide resources, increase clarity, and ultimately support survivors and all who are impacted by sexual violence. Opportunities like these can nurture empathy and strength, which are necessary to sustain our community.

As I mentioned in my previous messages, I am not always going to get this right, but I am committed to working inclusively with the UVM community to make positive change. My colleagues across the university are equally committed to this work. We all recognize the complexities of sexual violence and will work closely with all students impacted.

Institutional processes like Title IX are dictated in part by federal regulations and are central to the investigation of complaints that arise. In addition to the formal complaint resolution process, we have worked hard to provide further support to survivors and others by partnering with HopeWorks and by finding other opportunities on campus to support survivors.

I understand, too, that some have raised concerns about our athletics program. I want to affirm the confidence I have in our Athletics Department’s commitment to preventing sexual misconduct. This semester, I have spent significant time with Athletics Director Jeff Schulman, his senior staff, our coaches, and our student-athletes, and have been impressed with the extensive work they are doing. UVM student-athletes participate in four to six training and education sessions each year. The Athletics Department continues to create more and better ways to educate and engage our student-athletes, coaches and staff on issues related to sexual violence.

Some current examples of prevention and education programs and activities within UVM Athletics include: 

• A year-long partnership with HopeWorks for trainings every semester—with every varsity team—on sexual violence prevention, consent, and healthy relationships. 
• A new partnership this semester with Men Can Stop Rape, a DC-based organization that is internationally recognized for its approach to positively mobilizing men in the prevention of sexual violence. The partnership includes virtual and in-person sessions with student-athlete leaders and individual teams, as well as with coaches and administrators. It is intended to complement the collaboration with HopeWorks.  
• First-year student-athletes participate in specific modules on “Consent and Communication” and “Power and Identities” as part of a required first-year program for all athletes.
• Every team, coach, and administrator engages in training sessions on reporting options and survivor support resources, including special meetings on the Student-Athlete Code of Conduct and University policy, to make clear the Athletics Department does not tolerate sexual misconduct. 

The Athletics Department will continue to treat allegations of sexual misconduct with the utmost gravity. All reports are immediately referred to UVM’s Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity to ensure that those who are impacted understand their options and are offered support, and that everyone is afforded a fair process.

In my work with Athletics over the past few semesters, it is clear to me that the student-athletes, coaches, and support staff are engaging in preventative and educational measures, not because they have to, but because they want to. Along with the entire campus, our student-athletes, coaches and Athletics staff recognize the harm created by sexual violence to survivors and their allies. That is why they want to see positive change on our campus and beyond and are engaged so fully in the prevention and education efforts listed above.

Across our campus, there are existing programs that focus on ending violence in all forms. In the coming weeks, opportunities will be posted for more dialogue to promote healing, education, and deeper understanding. I hope you’ll participate in these conversations facilitated by the Office of the Vice Provost for DEI, and Dr. Elliot Ruggles, UVM’s sexual violence prevention and education coordinator.  

I am hopeful we can work together as one community to make the change we all want to see. As I have shared before, our We Hear You website summarizes our sincere commitment to prevention, safety, and support.

With appreciation,
Patty