Chancellor memo: Resources exist to prevent crimes, harassment

December 9, 2011

To the Campus Community:

While the recent events at Penn State have horrified many of us, there are important lessons that can be learned from them.

I want to remind the campus community of our collective responsibility to create and foster a healthy environment that seeks to prevent child abuse, crime, and harassment. Additionally, I seek to remind the campus that there are professionals assigned to assist in the investigation of complaints and who do so with the highest standards of professionalism and sensitivity.

Reporting child abuse. The staff of the Family Development Center and many within our College of Education who are licensed teachers are legally obligated to report suspected child abuse. For others, there is a moral obligation to report suspected child abuse that takes place on campus or involves faculty, staff or students. If you suspect child abuse, please contact the Department of Public Safety, 255-3111.

Reporting crime. All faculty, staff and students are asked to report crimes or suspicious activity on or near campus. Our police officers are well-trained and caring individuals but they depend on each of us to be on the lookout. To report a crime on or near campus, or to report suspicious activity, please contact the Department of Public Safety.

Reporting sexual harassment. UCCS is committed to providing a learning and working environment that is free from sexual harassment. If you believe you are being harassed, or if you have questions about what constitutes harassment, I encourage you to contact Joanne McDevitt, sexual harassment officer, 255-4324.

Anonymous reporting of fraud, theft or other crimes. UCCS provides an online, anonymous reporting service for complaints involving fraud, theft, embezzlement, abuse of university resources or waste. This third-party service can be reached by calling (800) 677-5590 or online at https://secure.ethicspoint.com/domain/en/report_custom.asp?clientid=14973.

Thank you for keeping UCCS safe and a wonderful place to work and learn.

Respectfully,

Pam Shockley-Zalabak
Chancellor