May 12, 2016
A letter from Gen. Richard Myers
Submitted by Gen. Richard Myers
Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,
I appreciate you allowing me to take a few minutes of your valuable time to address a serious issue. There have been many recent discussions regarding sexual violence and how and when the university responds, including information shared two weeks ago.
This is not just a student issue. It's not just an employee issue. Unfortunately, sexual violence is a serious issue in our society and across the nation.
It is important for you to know that the university has been, and continues to be, in compliance with Title IX. Nonetheless, some misinformation was generated during recent publicity surrounding litigation claims. While we do not comment on pending litigation, we want to address concerns and clear up the recent misinformation about our policies.
The university looks into all complaints of sexual violence through its Anti-Discrimination Policy (PPM 3010). That policy addresses conduct occurring in the following locations, which is consistent with Title IX requirements: (1) on campus; (2) on and off campus in university-sponsored programs and activities; and (3) off campus, if it relates to discrimination on campus or in university-sponsored programs or activities. Additionally, the university has several other policies and processes that could apply to reports of situations involving sexual violence. For example, the university's Critical Incident Response Team and Threat Management Team assess whether conduct (regardless of where it occurs) presents a threat to campus or university-sponsored programs. Many resources are available to help students regardless of the extent of the applicability of the policies mentioned above and regardless of the outcome of any investigations.
All persons at the university, including students, are strongly encouraged to report any incidents, regardless of where they occur, so the university can look into the allegations in accordance with its policies and help students get to the numerous resources available.
As part of a continual process, we are always working to clarify language and enhance education regarding the university's policies. Some students have demanded immediate policy revisions, but those requests seem to be based on misunderstandings both about the university's processing of allegations pertaining to off-campus sexual violence conduct and of all the various legal requirements imposed on a university. These misperceptions were fueled by recent media coverage and are not accurate. The university's efforts, therefore, will include addressing recent misunderstandings and providing additional, accurate information on the Office of Institutional Equity's website.
At K-State, we have always prided ourselves on facing challenges together and finding solutions. University leadership has been actively listening to students and other constituent groups and will continue to do so. All of us are fully committed as we move forward.
Our primary concern always has been, and will continue to be, the safety, fair treatment, respect and well-being of all students, faculty, staff and visitors to our campuses.
Thank you again for your time.
With Wildcat Pride,
Gen. Richard Myers