April 3, 2018
As you consider your acceptance to the Michigan State University (MSU) College of Veterinary Medicine for fall 2018, I am requesting a moment of your time to personally thank you for your interest in the College, and to address concerns you might have.
I am sure you are aware that MSU is the subject of investigations stemming from long-term sexual misconduct by a former faculty physician with ties to U.S. Olympics, MSU, and other gymnastics programs. We extend our sincere apologies to his survivors.
This situation is deeply troubling to the University and to the College of Veterinary Medicine. As an institution of higher education, we have a special responsibility to set the standard for responding to and supporting those who have experienced harassment and misconduct. MSU is moving swiftly and decisively to make changes aiming to prevent such a thing from ever happening again.
Steps to foster a safer, more caring, civil, and respectful MSU community are in motion. The University has realigned student and community health services, to better ensure safety, quality, and accountability. In addition, a new Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct Expert Advisory Workgroup to help correct problems and improve university policies and programs has been put in place.
The College of Veterinary Medicine takes the reporting of all sexual misconduct complaints very seriously and we are committed to holding any responsible parties accountable for their actions. The College also has support mechanisms in place to ensure that students are heard, supported, and safe. Every member of our community must be able to work and study in an environment free from harassment and misconduct. It is our mission that everyone at the College can work together to address this issue.
It is important to know that our professional and educational missions have not been diminished, and we continue to work toward building a culture of safety, excellence, and accountability. I hope you will join us at the College of Veterinary Medicine as we are the trusted leader in animal health, delivering unparalleled solutions to serve an ever-evolving world.
Sincerely,
Dr. John Baker, DVM, PhD, Dean
