HYDE PARK — The University of Chicago’s Public Safety Advisory Council convened Wednesday to address sexual misconduct on campus and to highlight support services for victims. Council chair Sharon Fairley, a law professor, said the meeting represents the council’s first formal discussion of sexual violence, a topic that gained urgency after two off‑campus fraternity assaults were reported this month.
Resources and Existing Programs
Members and university staff presented a suite of resources, including the dean‑on‑call sexual assault program, the Center for Awareness, Resolution, Education and Support, case‑management services, and the UChicago Safe app. The university also outlined its mandatory training for all students, faculty and researchers aimed at preventing and responding to sexual misconduct.
Early‑Stage Policy Exploration
Fairley explained that the council is still in an “early stage” of determining whether a policy gap exists that warrants a formal recommendation to the university. “We haven’t gotten there yet,” she said, emphasizing the council’s role in gathering community input before moving forward.
Recent Allegations Prompt Discussion
The meeting took place two days after a 19‑year‑old woman filed a lawsuit against the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity chapter and its national organization, alleging she was raped at the fraternity house in February. A week earlier, a 21‑year‑old woman reported a sexual assault at the nearby Alpha Epsilon Pi house. While council members and Chief Kyle Bowman of the university police did not address the specific incidents, they reiterated that off‑campus investigations are handled by the Chicago Police Department, with university police stepping in only when crimes occur on university property.
University Police Commitment
Bowman stressed that regardless of who leads an investigation, the university’s victim‑and‑witness services unit will provide immediate support to any community member affected. “If it’s off‑campus, we defer to the city of Chicago,” he said, adding that university police intervene directly only when they are on‑site and can immediately assist victims.
Community Reaction
Some students and staff have expressed frustration, calling the university’s distancing from off‑campus fraternities a “cop‑out” and criticizing the perceived minimal response. The plaintiff’s attorney seeks policy changes that would give the university greater oversight of fraternity houses.
Looking Ahead
The council, which meets once each academic quarter, plans to reconvene in February to assess community feedback and determine whether a formal policy recommendation is warranted. The meeting also featured a presentation by CollaBOOration founder Bennie Currie and a discussion of public‑safety plans for Halloween in Hyde Park.
As the advisory body continues its work, the university emphasizes that its mission is to protect students, faculty, and staff while upholding the values of safety, responsibility, and community stewardship.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
