Resources, Reporting Options and Support
The message below was sent by Chief Student Experience Officer Allen Groves, DPS Chief Michael Bunker and Dean of Students Sheriah N. Dixon to students, faculty and staff on Oct. 1, 2026.
Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:
Sexual harassment and sexual and relationship violence affect people on every college campus, which is why we offer regular training and support to students, faculty and staff, as well as expansive resources and support services. However, we recognize there has been increased dialogue on this important and sensitive topic, both locally and nationally. For many in our community, these conversations are painful and personal. If you have been affected by sexual harassment or sexual and relationship violence in any way, please know we care about you, we believe in your right to safety and we are here to support you.
One case of sexual violence is one too many. According to the , an estimated 1 in 5 women and 1 in 16 men are sexually assaulted while in college. Many of these incidents go unreported for a variety of reasons, including fear that a report might not receive the attention it deserves. We want to make sure every Syracuse University student is aware of their rights and reporting options and feels comfortable coming forward with confidence that support is available and a report will be given prompt attention.
We also want every student to know how to help prevent, report and respond to sexual harassment and sexual and relationship violence. Here are some key things to know about reporting and available support:
If you need support now
- Free, confidential support, 24/7: Call the in the Barnes Center at The Arch at 315.443.8000 (dial 1). This team is a confidential resource. It will not share information with the University or law enforcement without your permission. For non-urgent questions, please contact the Barnes Center during business hours.
- Emergency medical attention or transportation to an emergency room: Call Syracuse University Ambulance at 315.443.4299, dial 711 on campus or call 911 off campus.
- After an assault: Seek medical care as soon as possible, even if you choose not to have an evidence collection exam. If you can, avoid bathing, showering, brushing your teeth or changing clothes until you have been examined, because evidence can degrade quickly. You can decide about a police report now or later. offers testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, HIV and pregnancy. The Response Team can also tell you about financial assistance for medical costs.
Your reporting options
If you have experienced, become aware of or witnessed sexual harassment, sexual assault, stalking or relationship violence, you have several reporting options. You decide whether to report and which options to use. You may pursue a University process, a criminal complaint or both. You may also choose neither.
- : 315.443.0211 or . The office is in Marley Education Center, 765 Irving Ave.
- : 315.443.2224
- : 315.435.3016
You may report at any time, regardless of when the incident occurred. If the incident involves conduct by a faculty or staff member, the report will be referred to (EOIRS).
What happens after you report
The Student Title IX Case Management office (for reports of conduct by a student) or EOIRS (for reports of conduct by a faculty or staff member, or a vendor/contractor) will contact you to explain your options. They will share information about supportive measures available whether or not you choose to file a formal complaint. You will also receive information on how to file a complaint and about your right to report to law enforcement. You are protected from .
Syracuse University offers two resolution paths. Formal resolution includes an investigation, a hearing and the opportunity to appeal. Informal resolution is a facilitated process that requires agreement from all parties. In most cases, you control whether to pursue a resolution process. In some cases, the University may need to act to protect the wider campus community, even in the absence of a formal complaint or a reporting individual’s desire to proceed.
How law enforcement responds on campus
Syracuse University Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Syracuse Police Department (SPD) work together to respond to crime on campus. Here is how that works.
- Sex offenses: SPD’s Abused Persons Unit (APU) assumes full responsibility for investigations and arrests regardless of the severity or nature of the offense. DPS notifies SPD immediately of all sex offenses reported to DPS.
- Crimes in progress: DPS campus peace officers handle and assess crimes in progress on campus. DPS notifies SPD’s Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Desk of any felony. DPS also makes additional mandatory notifications to the APU in cases of violations, misdemeanors and felonies related to sexual abuse, or as further requested by the chief of SPD.
- Nonviolent felonies: DPS campus peace officers may make arrests, with the exception of sex offenses, which are handled by SPD. In all such cases, DPS immediately notifies the CID Desk for review and coordination.
Someone to guide you
helps students navigate University processes, including Title IX, and offers referrals and advocacy for personal challenges. Call 315.443.4357 (HELP) to speak with a case manager.
Confidential and private resources
include the Sexual and Relationship Violence Response Team, counselors and healthcare providers in the Barnes Center at The Arch, Hendricks Chapel chaplains, the University Ombuds (graduate students only) and the Athletics Department physician. As confidential resources, they will not report what you share without your consent.
Most other faculty and staff are designated as “,� which means the law requires them to share what they learn with the Title IX office. They will not share it beyond that office.
Amnesty for students who report
Your health and safety come first. A student or bystander who reports in good faith will not face Student Conduct Code action for alcohol or drug violations connected to the incident. Read the full .
How you can help
Everyone plays a role in creating a campus that cares for one another. Learn about , and . If you see something concerning, speak up or report it.
For more information, visit and review the .
You do not have to go through this alone. We are here to support you.
Sincerely,
Allen Groves
Chief Student Experience Officer
Chief Michael Bunker
Department of Public Safety
Sheriah N. Dixon
Dean of Students