Sexual violence and sexual misconduct continue to be pressing issues facing campuses across the country, including MSU. As part of efforts foster a culture of safety and respect, MSU has implemented a monitoring program that utilizes climate surveys, mid-year and annual Title IX reports, as well as information gathered from community meetings and focus groups.

While climate surveys and Title IX reports can serve as an indicator of the prevalence of sexual violence and misconduct on campus, data from MSU’s mid-year and annual reports is also used to identify trends and inform education and prevention efforts. MSU’s most-recent Title IX report summarizes reporting activities on campus for the fall semester of 2016.

Notable in the report is the increased number of incidents reported during the fall semester of 2016. Jessica Norris, MSU’s Title IX coordinator, said the increased numbers are not necessarily indicative of an increased problem, rather they demonstrate increased reporting of incidents that we know from national data are historically underreported.

MSU ranked among the highest of all participating institutions taking part in the 2015-2016 National College Health Assessment survey with over 90% of students reporting they have received information on sexual assault and relationship violence, which according to Norris, is likely a contributing factor to the increased reporting.

“As campuses across the country, including MSU, continue to elevate conversations around sexual assault and misconduct, we expect to see an increase in reported incidents,” Norris said. “This is reflective of a campus community that is more aware of the issues, community values and expectations, and reporting options.

“While many individuals may choose not to participate in an investigation process, the act of reporting itself is important because it allows MSU to connect individuals with support and resources and empowers them to choose their path forward. It also provides MSU with important information to identify patterns of behavior and take action by addressing individual behavior, developing training programs, implementing new or revising existing policies and procedures, or taking other administrative actions,” Norris said.

Sharing information on reporting activity and programmatic efforts is important to continuing conversations and engaging the community in building a culture of caring and respect that upholds Spartan values.