A Message from Dean Berquam Regarding Mandatory Reporting of Crime
Dear members of the UW-Madison community,
By now, I’m sure that you are all familiar with the disturbing allegations regarding sexual assault that have arisen at other campuses across the country. While those incidents will be played out in the media and the judicial system, we as educators and students need to discuss how we must respond when such allegations arise. UW-Madison is a learning community, and the right for all people to feel safe on campus is fundamental to our community. Each of us has a responsibility, both ethical and legal, to uphold the safety and well-being of our campus.
To put it more plainly: If you see something, say something. In many cases, a failure to report has more than just moral implications; by allowing improper conduct to go unreported, you may put the safety of the victim and the stature of our institution at risk. The U.S. Department of Education and the courts have made it clear that Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 offers all of us protection from sexual harassment or sexual violence in our educational programs or activities.
And when it comes to children and suspicion of child sexual abuse, the law is very clear, and the university requires members of its community — faculty, staff and students — to report any suspected incidents. We are reinforcing the reporting process with units that interact with children.
Violations or concerns about possible violations of Title IX and/or the university’s discrimination policies — even if they don’t rise to the level of criminal behavior — should be immediately reported to the Office of Equity and Diversity at or 608- 263-2378, or to the Wisconsin Telecommunications Relay Service, 7-1-1.
The following resources are available to the UW community to bring issues and concerns to the attention of the university and/or law enforcement:
-Emergencies: 911
-UW Police Department: 608-264-2677 (264-COPS)
-Madison Police Department: 608-261-9694
-UW-Madison Safety Website: . SafeU provides links to campus safety resources, as well as copies of the Campus Safety Report.
-Dean of Students Office: 608-263-5700
-Employee Assistance Office: 608-263-2987.
-UHS 24-Hour Crisis Line: 608-265-5600. This number can be used both by those suffering from stress or mental health issues and by those who believe that someone they know may need help.
These reports will be evaluated, and the proper intervention and assistance will be offered to individuals as needed, with the utmost respect for the privacy and legal rights of all those involved.
Again, if you see something, say something. The resources identified above are available to assist you. UW-Madison takes allegations of illegal or unethical behavior seriously. Allegations brought to the university’s attention will be reviewed, and appropriate follow-up action will be taken.
Thank you for your time and attention. By working together, we can help to keep all members of our community safe.
On, Wisconsin!
Lori M. Berquam
Dean of Students
Division of Student Life