The Radford University Board of Visitors is actively monitoring recent reports of alleged student misconduct. We are also aware of the concerns expressed by members of the Radford University community, including those articulated in a correspondence submitted by a group of students.
The Board and the University are unequivocally committed to providing a respectful, secure and supportive environment for every member of our community. The safety and well-being of every Highlander remains our highest priority.
The Board has received a detailed briefing from the University’s administration on these matters. We commend the President’s efforts to address this matter promptly. This includes his creation of the Presidential Task Force, which has already begun reviewing current policies and practices and determining ways to further strengthen campus safety, prevention efforts, and supporting students. That Task Force includes student representatives, along with members of the administration and faculty, and an external consulting firm that specializes in these matters.
As the University administration has already communicated to both the students and the University community at large, federal student privacy law, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), strictly prohibits the Board and the University from commenting on specific student conduct and disciplinary matters. While the Board recognizes this prohibition of disclosure can be frustrating at times, the privacy of students remains paramount.
The University has always maintained and adhered to Standards of Student Conduct whose policies promote campus safety and address reports of misconduct. The policies and procedures include reporting instances of alleged sexual misconduct to local authorities and/or the Commonwealth Attorney as warranted, and when directed, deferring to such authorities to complete their investigation first.
The Board will continue to closely monitor the important work of the Task Force and will thoroughly review and evaluate their conclusions and recommendations.
Dale S. Ardizzone, Esq.
Radford University B.S. '85; M.S. '86
Rector, Radford University Board of Visitors