Over the past week, there have been many important conversations and much self-reflection among a highly motivated group of UVM student-athletes, coaches, staff and administrators who stand in solidarity with survivors of sexual violence. We are committed to ensuring a UVM Athletics community in which all feel safe, valued, respected and that is free of sexual misconduct in any form. Each of us has an important role to play in promoting societal shift and dismantling the systems and structures that can lead to sexual assault. UVM Athletics is committed to being a leader in this work, on campus and beyond.
 
Sexual misconduct in any form is unacceptable and is not tolerated by the UVM Athletic Department. Our policies and expectations are clear, and they are communicated regularly through University policy, the Athletics Code of Conduct and a variety of training and educational programs. At no time is athletic status, gender, or sport a factor in determining responsibility or an appropriate sanction. The Athletic Department has treated, and will continue to treat, every allegation with the utmost of seriousness ensuring that cases are immediately referred to UVM's Office of Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity (AAEO).  
 
As we continuously strive for improvement, we are working collaboratively with student-athlete leaders, staff and professionals on and off campus to ensure best practices are implemented around sexual misconduct prevention.  Our annual trainings to date have included programming on healthy relationships, consent, reporting options, and bystander intervention.
 
While it can be difficult and frightening to report sexual misconduct, we are committed to making this process as supportive as it can possibly be. Below are a variety of resources, both inside and outside of the Athletic Department, that are available to any member of the UVM community who has been impacted by sexual misconduct.
 
I know that recent campus events and the dialogue around sexual misconduct are having a significant impact on many in the UVM Athletics community. I want to acknowledge the full range of these feelings and encourage all of us to work together, be willing to engage in  difficult conversations, and remain united in our goal to end sexual assault and ensure the safety and well-being of our entire community. 

- Jeff Schulman '89, Director of Athletics
 
Resources
UVM Title IX Office – Support, Reporting and FAQs
UVM CAPS – Counseling and Psychiatric Services (confidential)
CSPC – Catamount Sport Psychology and Counseling (confidential)
Judy Rickstad – Campus Victim's Advocate (confidential)
Keith Smith – UVM Men's Outreach Coordinator
Dr. Cathy Osmers Rahill – Senior Woman Administrator, Athletics Title IX Coordinator