Message from the Office of the President: Preventing Sexual Misconduct

Content warning: This communication contains information related to sexual assault and misconduct. If you experience distress, please review and use the resources available to you. (Crookston, Duluth, Morris, Rochester, Twin Cities).

Dear faculty, staff, and student workers,

Last month, the University launched a new online education module, Preventing Sexual Misconduct, Discrimination, and Retaliation, which all employees and student workers are expected to complete by May 27, 2021. On this first day of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, I write today to reaffirm the importance of this training, as well as my—and the University’s—commitment to the prevention of sexual misconduct and harassment on our campuses and other locations. This issue has an impact on every one of us, from an individual’s ability to thrive, to the culture across our campuses, colleges, and units, and we must work together to do better in our shared work to eliminate misconduct in all forms.

The President’s Initiative to Prevent Sexual Misconduct (PIPSM) is an ongoing effort that takes a holistic view of this work and is grounded in public health research that emphasizes ongoing awareness and training. My personal goal and charge to all University community members—leaders, as well as students, faculty, and staff on every campus—is to take ownership in growing healthy work, living, and learning environments. Every one of us should feel that we have the knowledge and ability to intervene when harmful conduct occurs, by speaking up directly, by interrupting the behavior, by supporting those harmed, or by reporting concerns to University resources.

This work is a cornerstone of my administration’s efforts, and leaders across the institution have joined me to advance this work. Creating a healthy and inclusive University culture that prevents sexual misconduct, discrimination, and retaliation, and advances Community & Belonging takes a sustained and long-term investment of time and attention. We cannot change the past. But we will not allow the past to define our future. We are committed to creating a culture that supports our community with the respect, transparency, and accountability we accord one another. Please commit yourself to this effort by completing this educational module and doing your part to ensure an environment in which we can all thrive and be our best selves.

Be healthy, safe and well.

With warmest wishes,
Joan Gabel