A Message to Our Highlander Community

Dear Highlanders, 

Some of you may have recently seen or read concerning media reports involving Radford University students. We recognize that news of this nature can be troubling and may leave members of our campus community feeling unsettled or unsure of where to turn.  

First and foremost, I want you to know that your safety, well-being and sense of belonging matter deeply to us. Every member of our community deserves to feel safe, respected and supported. Any report of alleged sexual misconduct is serious, and we recognize the profound impact these situations can have on individuals and our community as a whole. 

We also understand that you may have questions about the reports and how the university responds to allegations of misconduct. To protect the privacy and rights of students involved in these matters, we cannot publicly disclose or confirm whether individual complaints have been filed. Radford University has established processes through its Standards of Student Conduct to address reports of alleged misconduct, support students and promote a safe campus environment.  

Resources for Students and Employees 

No one should feel that they have to navigate a difficult experience alone. Students who experience or report alleged sexual misconduct have access to a range of support services and resources, including the Office of the Dean of Students, Radford University Police Department, the Office of Compliance, the Office of Student Standards and Conduct, Student Counseling Services, and Substance and Violence Education Support. Students are encouraged to contact university offices or local law enforcement agencies. 

Resources and support services are also available to employees. All employees can contact New River Valley Community Services for confidential support services at 540-838-8000. Employees enrolled in the university’s health insurance plan also have access to confidential support services through our Employee Assistance Program.   

Whether you need assistance, have concerns or simply want someone to talk to, we encourage you to reach out to one of those offices. Asking for help is a sign of strength, and there are people in our Highlander community who are ready to listen and support you. 

Opportunities for Dialogue 

We also recognize that fostering a safe, supportive campus requires opportunities for dialogue. In the coming weeks, we plan to promote options to hear directly from members of our campus community about their experiences, questions and concerns. These conversations will provide opportunities to strengthen our campus community, and your participation will help inform this important effort. 

Additionally, we have already seated a Presidential Task Force to examine current practices and to recommend meaningful actions that further strengthen campus safety, prevention efforts and student support. We will share additional information about these initiatives as details are finalized.  

We know that trust is built through actions. As a university, we have a responsibility to listen to concerns, approach difficult conversations with openness and compassion, and take thoughtful steps to strengthen our community. Especially during difficult moments, we must continue to work together while also caring for one another. 

Bret Danilowicz 

President