David Garland: Update on Latest Allegations

To the Baylor Family:

Yesterday, Baylor University received a legal filing that outlined sexual assault allegations that occurred within our campus community several years ago. Our hearts are heavy at the thought of anyone experiencing sexual assault within our community. Any such acts are reprehensible and unacceptable. The University remains committed to eliminating all forms of sexual and gender-based harassment and discrimination within our community.

As many of you know, Baylor has taken unprecedented actions that have been well-documented in response to allegations of sexual assaults involving our campus community. These actions, among many, include:

• An unparalleled University-wide investigation that concluded with 105 recommendations to strengthen the safety and security of our students;
• Leadership changes within the University’s administration and athletic department; and
• Development of a robust Title IX office, with mandatory Title IX training for all students, faculty and staff.

Many of the allegations made in the most recent filing were disappointing and horrifying, and certainly not reflective of the Baylor that I know and cherish. None of the activities described in the filing align with our past or current institutional recruiting practices. We take these allegations seriously and will continue to identify any areas of possible improvement in order to provide our students with a safe and secure learning environment. Although we are unable to confirm the number of the sexual assault allegations included in the court filing, even one instance among our students is too many.

I am assured of our athletics future under new Athletic Director Mack Rhoades and new head football coach Matt Rhule. They have already implemented changes in our athletics-related policies and procedures, and they will uphold Baylor’s values and Christian mission among our coaches and student-athletes. I know Mack and Matt will not tolerate any sexual assault-related events.

Our prayers go out to those who have been impacted by sexual assault in their lives. While these are certainly trying times for the Baylor Family, my commitment and respect for the University remains strong. I am reassured by the work we have done to increase sexual assault awareness and prevention, fully implementing best practices in Title IX operations and providing support services for all students who need them. Baylor University remains steadfast in our mission of educating students in a Christian environment for leadership and service.

Sincerely,

David E. Garland
Interim President