University Statement
We appreciate the very thorough work of the WilmerHale team that led this independent investigation and the courage of the survivors to come forward and share their experiences.
The university took quick action when it received allegations of sexual misconduct in January, relieving the provost of his duties and beginning an investigation within a matter of days.
We have just begun to carefully review the full report and take all of its findings into account. Yet, it is clear in the executive summary that the WilmerHale report – released publicly today at the same time it was shared with university officials – contains a shocking description of improper and unacceptable behavior by a university officer as well as failings by this institution. We will do everything in our power to prevent such misconduct from ever happening again at the University of Michigan.
We will thoroughly review the recommendations made by the WilmerHale team, which was led by attorneys with decades of experience in investigations and sexual misconduct matters. Necessary changes to processes and procedures will be implemented promptly.
Many people have worked hard for decades to eliminate sexual misconduct from our community, but this report makes it clear that we have much more work to do.
We are committed at all levels of the university to do whatever is required to address these matters and to support those who bravely step forward to report misconduct and help us make our community safer for all.