How to Handle A Problem?

[GP1]

I received the e-mails below in my personal account. This is a good example of how a university should react to a negative story. I don't know if WF athletes were involved in the story, but the Athletic Director addressing the issue in a letter to supporters sends the right message to fans, the student athletes and the general student population. A president and athletic director can't control everyone, but they can send the right message.

I just thought this was unique and a good way to handle a problem. They can't control the Today Show report, but they can manage the story from their end. If you have a problem, run to the problem, not away from it.

On Tuesday President Hatch sent a letter to the campus community (below) in which he said, “It is my understanding that on Thursday, NBC's Today Show plans to air a story about the problem of sexual assault on college and university campuses. We have been advised by a producer of the Today Show that the story will include an interview with a former Wake Forest student involving an incident that occurred several years ago.” News accounts of the Today Show story have been picked up broadly and report the alleged involvement of two former Wake Forest student-athletes.

I assure you that Wake Forest University and the Athletics Department take very seriously our commitment to provide a positive and secure environment for our students. As the President stressed in his message, Federal Law prohibits our sharing any details of the alleged incident or any other student-specific information. I want you to know that our department works diligently to encourage conduct that properly reflects the values of our university.

Ron Wellman

Director of Athletics

Dear members of the Wake Forest community,

It is my understanding that on Thursday, NBC's Today Show plans to air a story about the problem of sexual assault on college and university campuses. We have been advised by a producer of the Today Show that the story will include an interview with a former Wake Forest student involving an incident that occurred several years ago. I am aware that some members of the local news media have received an email purporting to provide information about that incident. I have also recently learned that this same email may have been circulated more broadly, and some members of our Wake Forest community may have received it in their personal email accounts.

Regarding this matter, I must emphasize that Federal law (FERPA) prevents the University from discussing specifics of this or any other student case.

I can assure you the University takes these issues seriously, has a well-established Code of Conduct and has procedures for hearing alleged violations of that Code of Conduct. In addition, Wake Forest offers significant resources to support our students in times of need.

Fostering a positive and respectful living and learning environment is of paramount importance at Wake Forest University. As part of our Pro Humanitate mission we strive to treat all of our students with integrity and compassion.

Rest assured that the University is taking appropriate action to respond to this matter.

Sincerely,

Nathan Hatch

President

[zip37]

Aha! Neo-cons again .