A Message from the President – June 23, 2022
- June 23rd, 2022
- in Messages from the President
Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,
On June 23, 1972, Title IX was signed into law promoting equity in education programs and activities. The University is celebrating the 50th anniversary of this historic legislation by affirming our pledge to continue to promote and preserve a safe, respectful campus environment and our steadfast commitment to provide an environment that promotes prevention and reporting of sexual misconduct.
The University also has several events planned throughout the year to commemorate the 50th anniversary. Today, the Women and Gender Resource Center, Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs, University Programs and Department of Athletics are hosting a birthday party for Title IX from noon to 2 p.m. at the Gorgas House. I encourage all to take part in this celebration and the many events that are planned throughout the remainder of the year.
The University provides Title IX-related resources, support and reporting options for students, employees and members of our community. I encourage each of you to review the information and links provided to be informed about these valuable services.
The Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy provides detailed information about what is considered Prohibited Conduct, how to report Prohibited Conduct, available supportive measures and the University’s prevention, education and awareness efforts. Students, employees and campus visitors are encouraged to report sexual or gender-based harassment, sexual or gender-based discrimination, sexual assault, dating or domestic violence, stalking, sexual exploitation or other concerns related to sexual misconduct to any of the multiple reporting avenues.
The UAct program provides a central location for information about reporting sexual misconduct. The University of Alabama Police Department provides a comprehensive array of law enforcement services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year through a dedicated staff of sworn, state-commissioned police officers. A criminal report can be filed through UAPD by contacting them at 205-348-5454 or by visiting their headquarters located on campus at 1110 Jackson Ave.
Reports may also be made to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs. The Office oversees the University’s compliance with Title IX by receiving and investigating reports of sexual misconduct. The Office also aids with supportive measures such as counseling, safety planning and academic support. In addition, the Office provides training and education programs, including programming to improve communication and conflict resolution skills. To make a report or inquire more about the services provided by the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs, please contact the University’s Title IX Coordinator, Jessica Humber, at 205-348-5496 or by email at titleix@ua.edu.
The University also provides confidential reporting and counseling options. The Women and Gender Resource Center provides victim advocacy and counseling services for all members of the University community who are survivors of interpersonal violence, as well as family and friends who have been impacted by abuse. The WGRC can be reached at 205-348-5040. On-call advocates are available 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays, for crisis intervention and support. After hours, the on-call advocate can be reached by contacting UAPD at 205-348-5454.
Additional confidential counseling services include the Counseling Center, which provides counseling and outreach programming for students. The Capstone Family Therapy Clinic provides psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families to The University of Alabama and surrounding community. The Tuscaloosa Safe Center is a 24/7 sexual assault crisis center that provides a free, compassionate patient-centered environment for sexual assault forensic examinations. Moreover, the Employee Assistance Program is designed to provide eligible employees and their family members with resources for resolving a variety of work-related and personal concerns.
All of these valuable services are summarized on the Sexual Assault and Misconduct Services website. We have a shared responsibility to create and maintain a culture of safety and respect. I encourage you to personally commit to partnering with us in our ongoing effort to combat and prevent sexual misconduct.
Stuart R. Bell
President