April 27, 2021: Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct Strategic Plan

Dear MSU Community,

When I announced three strategic planning efforts shortly after I arrived 18 months ago — the Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct initiative, the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiative and the Strategic Planning initiative — I shared that I recognize the importance of building on the momentum of our successes as we chart a course toward an even brighter future. Through the collective thought and action of these committees, your feedback and the wealth of knowledge embedded in our university, I am proud to announce the first of these initiatives, the RVSM Strategic Plan.

I asked the RVSM Expert Advisory Workgroup to build upon the strong work that they have already done over the past few years and develop a five-year plan for moving forward that will hold us accountable for our commitment to foster a safer campus community. The workgroup is co-chaired by special presidential RVSM advisors Dr. Rebecca Campbell, professor of psychology, and Lt. Andrea Munford, coordinator of the Center for Trauma-Informed Investigative Excellence at the MSU Police Department.

The workgroup has delivered on that request by providing a values-based plan that outlines recommendations for programming, policy changes, training and other initiatives centered on trauma-informed and intersectional practices. Using input from campus engagement sessions, direct feedback from survivors, their families and allies and the 2019 KnowMore Survey, this strategic planning process has allowed us to understand the prevalence of RVSM on our campus. Applying the research of our campus experts, we critically consider where we need to adjust our policies, allocate resources and expand on programming that builds on our commitment to change.

The plan focuses on seven key areas:

  • Expanding trauma-informed services.
  • Building trauma-informed culture.
  • Strengthening RVSM sanctions and discipline.
  • Assessing resources for respondents.
  • Strengthening prevention programming.
  • Creating respectful work environments.
  • Promoting accountability.

Through these key areas, there are several specific recommendations for additional actions in conjunction with campus partners. For example, launching an RVSM sanctions and discipline policy initiative in conjunction with the Office of the Provost, participating in the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators Culture of Respect program to evaluate our prevention programming, launching a Culture of Support campaign, and promoting the Quest LBGTQIA+ anti-violence training.

I invite you to visit my initiatives webpage for additional information on this plan and the other two strategic planning efforts underway.

Lastly, I’d like to thank the RVSM workgroup for all of their hard work and for helping us further emphasize the importance of making MSU a safe space for all Spartans.

Thank you,

Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D. (he/him)
President