Statement regarding OSU President F. King Alexander from Board of Trustees Chair Rani Borkar

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Oregon State University provides the following message from OSU Board of Trustees Chair Rani Borkar regarding the performance of President F. King Alexander as OSU’s president, Title IX matters related to Oregon State University, and the Husch Blackwell report regarding his leadership of Title IX at Louisiana State University.

Members of the OSU Community,

The Oregon State University Board of Trustees met today to review the Husch Blackwell report issued on behalf of the Board of Supervisors of Louisiana State University and discuss with President Alexander his leadership over Title IX at LSU and subsequent information that has been shared about Title IX and the handling of sexual violence and misconduct at LSU.

As a Board, we unequivocally condemn sexual violence and misconduct. We stand with and support survivors of all forms of sexual violence and affirm the work of advocates.

Today, the Board heard extensive public comments; reviewed written communications from members of the public; held a public discussion with President Alexander; met in executive session in accordance with Oregon law to discuss personnel matters; and held discussion in public session to consider next steps.

As a result of this process, the Board voted 12-2 to place President Alexander on probation through June 1, 2021, during which time the Board will conduct an evaluation to gather feedback from the OSU community to help inform his success.

The Board also will require that the Trustees’ Executive and Audit Committee contract with an independent outside consultant to evaluate information from the Husch Blackwell report and follow-up on any outstanding questions from trustees. The consultant’s report will be provided to the public.

President Alexander will be required to review the recommendations of the Husch Blackwell report relevant to OSU policies and practices and provide the Board with a report by June 1 that assesses and seeks to improve any OSU policies, procedures and funding needs for Title IX reporting and survivor support services.

President Alexander also will provide to the Board by June 1 a concrete plan to rebuild trust and relationships with the university community.

The Board recognizes that the discussions and media reports since the Husch Blackwell report was issued have resurfaced painful, traumatic memories for survivors of sexual violence and their advocates. Further, we understand the profound impact these troubling circumstances are having on all members of the university community and on Oregon State University as an institution.

We heard today from survivors and advocates about the need for survivor-centered, trauma-informed processes and resources. We heard the importance of offering students, staff and faculty robust resources, including both reporting options and confidential support and resources. This input will guide the university’s response.

As well, we heard from students, staff and faculty concerns about a lack of trust in the Board. We acknowledge the need to rebuild OSU community confidence in our leadership as OSU’s governing body.

Oregon State University’s mission and values never waver. We are grateful to the University’s talented and resourceful students, faculty, and staff for their resilience and accomplishments, and their contributions to OSU’s success.

Sincerely,

Rani Borkar
Chair
OSU Board of Trustees