The UNC Faculty Council today approved a proposal that will remove cases of sexual misconduct, harassment and intimidation and discrimination from the jurisdiction of the student-led honor system, effective Aug. 1.
The vote came after a months-long effort by students and administrators to modify the way the University addresses cases of sexual misconduct. This effort was a response to a “Dear Colleague” letter circulated in January to colleges nationally that called for changes to sexual assault procedures in higher education.
Among the modifications mandated by the letter is a shift of the burden of proof for sexual assault cases from “beyond a reasonable doubt” to a preponderance of evidence, meaning a conviction can come if the person accused “more likely than not” committed the violation.
Assistant Dean of Students Melinda Manning said the group that has been working on crafting a separate system for cases of sexual misconduct has not yet finished its work, but that today’s approval clears the way for the new system to take effect upon its completion.
To view the resolution, click here
