Dear University of Utah Students,

As you may have read or heard, the Department of Education recently released the final regulations for implementing protections of equal access to education under Title IX of the Higher Education Act of 1972. As federal laws, these regulations govern how the University of Utah and other institutions are required to respond to sexual assault and other forms of sexual harassment. These regulations are effective as of August 14, 2020.

The updates to the regulations are significant; however, we are carefully reviewing them over the coming weeks to determine what, if any, adjustments we need to make to our current policies and processes for addressing reports of sexual misconduct. Additionally, we are committed to informing our student body of any changes we are required to make as a result of these new laws.

We recognize that many members of our community have been profoundly impacted by sexual violence. It is important that you know of our ongoing commitment to prevent sexual assault, support those who report experiencing harm, and to conduct fair, transparent, and safe grievance processes for all parties involved. We remain steadfastly focused on continuing to build a supportive, safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where everyone can learn, work, and thrive.  

If you have experienced interpersonal harassment or violence, we encourage you to connect with the resources at the U that can best support you. Complaints of sexual misconduct should be made directly to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action (oeo@utah.edu or 801-581-8365). Confidential support is available through our Victim Survivor Advocates (advocate@sa.utah.edu or 801-581-7779), the University Counseling Center (801-581-6826), and the Women’s Resource Center (wrc@sa.utah.edu or 801-581-8030). If you need immediate support after our regular business hours, please contact a 24-hour resource or emergency department:

• Emergency: 911
• University of Utah Police: 801-585-2677
• Rape Recovery Center Crisis Line: 801-467-7273
• Domestic Violence Link Line: 1-800-897-5465
• Mental Health/Suicide Crisis: 801-587-3000
• Salt Lake Police Victim Advocates: 801-580-7969

Sincerely,

Lori McDonald, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs
University of Utah

Sherrie Hayashi, J.D.
Director, Office of Equal Opportunity & Affirmative Action
Title IX Coordinator

Jason Ramirez, M.Ed.
Associate Vice President & Dean of Students
Senior Deputy Title IX Coordinator