Our commitment to preventing sexual violence

Dear University Community,

Yesterday, the Asbury Park Press published a story about sexual assaults on New Jersey college campuses. The article cited reported rapes at Rowan between 2022 and 2025.

Sexual assault has no place on Rowan’s campuses. This is why proactive education about this topic and support for those who experience sexual harassment, sexual assault or rape are responsibilities we take seriously.

Student education about sexual violence starts before students begin classes, through Summer Orientation and Welcome Week. We require mandatory training and support ongoing programs with student clubs and organizations, as well as with the Greek community. 

Our prevention efforts are strengthened by our commitment to the Green Dot Bystander Intervention program. This comprehensive approach capitalizes on the power of bystander awareness and intervention. 

Support does not end with education, however. All employees complete training once a year to help recognize concerns and respond appropriately. Our Student Life leadership and staff are available around the clock to assist students who experience any form of sexual violence. They work closely with the Office of Student Equity and Compliance, the Wellness Center and Rowan University Police to address concerns, support students, and respond to reported incidents. 

I am grateful for the work of our Sexual Violence Prevention Committee in helping shape these policies and practices. The committee meets monthly, bringing together students, faculty, administrators and external experts who work at the front lines of sexual violence response and prevention.

When we receive a report of sexual violence, Rowan is committed to treating students with compassion and respect. Our focus is directed toward providing access to needed support and resources as well as implementing protocols for investigation and accountability.

Encouraging reporting, however, is only part of our responsibility. What we want to do is prevent these incidents from ever happening in the first place. 

I do not accept sexual assault as an inevitable part of the college experience. Rowan University will never be complacent about the work that remains. Every student who comes to Rowan deserves a safe place to live and learn.

I ask every member of our community to take this responsibility personally. Look out for one another. Speak up when something is wrong. Take part in the education and prevention programs available to you. And if someone comes to you for help, listen and help them find the support they need.

Anyone who has experienced sexual violence can find information about support services and reporting options through our Office of Student Equity and Compliance.

Our work, though, isn’t done. You have my commitment that we will continue this work, listen to our students, and look for ways to do better.

Sincerely,

Ali A. Houshmand, Ph.D.
President
Rowan University