(WWJ) University of Michigan President Mark S. Schlissel released a letter to students and alumni saying the university had received and acted on allegations of sexual misconduct against Martin A. Philbert, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs.
In response, the school placed Philbert on administrative leave, effective Jan. 21, 2020, pending the results of an investigation that began on Friday, Jan. 17.
"We take allegations of sexual misconduct very seriously, and our policy is clear: Sexual misconduct will not be tolerated in the University of Michigan community,' Schlissel wrote.
Per Schlissel, the university received several allegations about sexual misconduct by Philbert on Thursday and Friday, Jan. 16-17, 2020. An internal investigation launched Friday.
Over the next three days, the university retained an outside law firm which immediately launched an investigation of the allegations, our Division of Public Safety and Security was engaged, and Dr. Philbert was directed not to report to work.
"Today, I have moved OIE's reporting line for all matters related to this investigation to Associate Vice President for Human Resources Richard S. Holcomb," Schlissel said, adding, "The U-M Board of Regents and I are committed to a full and thorough investigation, and we will continue to work to ensure the integrity of the process, following the same policy and practices that apply to all employees at U-M. It remains early in the investigation, and no findings or conclusions have been reached.
"We thank the individuals who have come forward with these allegations. We know that reporting requires courage. The university has offered support services and will work diligently to assist those who report in every way possible."
Anyone who has information on this case or any others that involve inappropriate sexual overtures, can report in three ways:
The Office for Institutional Equity (734-763-0235)U-M's anonymous compliance hotline (1-866-990-0111) or via the website.Division of Public Safety and Security (734-763-1131)
"We recognize and thank the many members of our community who have spent considerable time over the last few years helping us with revisions to our sexual misconduct policies, increasing awareness of this problem and helping us become a better university. These efforts – and your many contributions – have been essential and remain so, as we strive to create a safe, respectful and inclusive culture, where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive and accountability applies to all," Schlissel wrote.
