This morning, the law firm of Butzel Long provided the Board of Regents with an oral and written report of its investigation in the University's actions following the death of EMU student Laura Dickinson.

Laura was killed on the EMU campus in December. This is a tragedy we continue to grieve.

The Board committed to a thorough, forthright and open process regarding this investigation. This afternoon, we are sharing the final report with our campus community and the general public.

I commend Jim Stapleton and his subcommittee members Gary Hawks and Fran Parker for taking on this important assignment. I believe that once you have read the Butzel Long report you will agree this goal has been achieved.

The report reveals a systemic failure to comply with the federal Clery Act, including the failure to warn the campus of potential danger. The findings are clear: This University got it wrong. What happened was unacceptable.

We know that many members in our community felt a breach of trust and deep anxiety because of the University's failures. On behalf of the Board, I apologize and pledge that the safety of our students , and the well-being of the entire campus community, is of paramount importance.

The report also shows us that the University has already taken steps to correct what went wrong. Several initiatives are now underway to respond more effectively in emergencies and report crimes more accurately. Bur there will be much more work to do in the days ahead.

This detailed report will guide us as we decide what actions we must take to improve campus safety and security. We will make the changes necessary to better inform and protect our community.

The Board has made the executive summary and full report available here:

• Executive Summary (PDF, 1MB)
• Full Report (PDF, 79.3MB)

For comments or questions regarding this report, contact the Board at 734-487-2410.

Thomas Sidlik
Chairman of the Board of Regents