Dear Vanderbilt community,
We write to you today in response to disturbing reports we’ve recently heard from several young women in our community regarding sexual assault by current and former Vanderbilt student-athletes.
First and foremost, we want to state unequivocally that we have zero tolerance for any acts that undermine the safety and well-being of any member of our community. We take this responsibility incredibly seriously. It is not just our professional responsibility, but also a moral obligation that unites the leadership of this university. As women and mothers ourselves, our hearts go out to all whose lives have been forever altered by any such heinous acts. As leaders, we are committed to striving every day to provide the safest and healthiest environment possible for all of our students, and we are deeply sorry that this institution we have worked to lead has not been able to provide this for everyone.