U of I reviewing policies on sex abuse reporting

[December 03, 2011]  SPRINGFIELD -- In light of the recent scandal at Penn State University, the University of Illinois is reviewing its policies on reporting of sexual abuse cases.

President Michael Hogan said Friday that he had appointed a small task force, led by Tom Bearrows, university counsel, to inventory the UI's policies, processes, training and educational programs relating to sexual abuse reports.

He's also asking the university's human resources office to initiate mandatory sexual harassment training for all UI employees.

Hogan directed the panel first to prepare a letter to the university community, reaffirming the university's commitment to "the safety and well-being of all members of our community and visitors to our campuses." The letter, he said, should also emphasize that laws apply to everyone "irrespective of position or level"; that anyone who witnesses sexual abuse or other crimes or misconduct must report the incident to appropriate legal officials, university superiors, administrators or the UI's ethics officer; and that people who report such incidents will be protected from retaliation.

The task force will also compile an inventory of state and federal laws and university policies on child sex abuse and other crimes or misconduct, and will develop an inventory of potential cases where background checks might be appropriate, such as job applicants or anyone with access to university facilities.

The panel will determine whether the policies are "adequate and consistent" and whether faculty and staff are educated about their responsibilities under the law.

Finally, the task force will identify "special situations that merit extra attention and oversight," such as youth sports camps, summer music camps and 4-H activities, and will recommend ways to inform the public about steps the UI is taking to protect children in those settings.

Hogan said he initiated the review immediately after the Penn State cases came to light, and Chris Kennedy, board chairman, "almost simultaneously" requested similar action.

The task force includes Maureen Parks, executive director of human resources, and Donna McNeely, executive director of the UI ethics office.

[Associated Press]

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