MU Chancellor responds to ESPN “Outside the Lines” report
University of Missouri Chancellor R. Bowen Loftin today responded to an ESPN Outside the Lines report pointing out instances when MU should have taken action in campus assaults.
Loftin said in a news release, “As Chancellor of the University of Missouri, I believe that one my greatest responsibilities is the well-being of our students, faculty and staff and that includes their safety and security. Since I took office more than six months ago, University of Missouri System President Tim Wolfe and I have worked hard to evaluate and review our policies and resources related to sexual assault and mental health and, as a result, we have instituted sweeping changes to ensure the well-being of our community.”
The report alleged a member of the athletic coaching staff threatened to take away a student-athlete’s scholarship if she pressed charges in a 2008 assault case, but after speaking with the coach and former player, it was determined the claim was baseless.
Loftin went on to say there wasn’t an apparent mishandling of any of the cases, but apologized to the staff and victims.
“Our students and their parents, our faculty and staff, our alumni and community neighbors all deserve a safe and secure campus environment, and you have my word and my solemn promise that I will continue to work with UM System President Wolfe to work toward that end,” said Loftin.
Loftin said several initiatives have been put into place to keep the campus safe, including strengthening the university’s Title IX non-discrimination policies and clarifying reporting procedures.
