Stanford will participate in the Higher Education Sexual Misconduct and Awareness survey in spring 2024
Ten universities nationwide have confirmed their participation in the survey, which will use an updated version of the 2019 Association of American Universities (AAU) survey.
In spring 2024, Stanford students will have the opportunity to participate in the Higher Education Sexual Misconduct and Awareness (HESMA) survey, an initiative aimed at understanding and addressing issues related to sexual misconduct within higher education institutions.
Nine other universities from across the country have confirmed their participation in the survey.
The results of this survey will be used to assess current education and response programs and to shape future policies and programs geared toward creating a safer and more inclusive campus environment.
“Sexual misconduct continues to be a serious issue on U.S. college campuses,” said Provost Jenny Martinez. “This survey is an important tool for us to measure the prevalence of sexual assault, harassment, and other forms of sexual violence at Stanford, to evaluate student awareness, as well as to understand the national climate around these issues. Regular participation in climate surveys such as this are part of our commitment to preventing sexual misconduct, responding effectively to incidents, and supporting members of our community who are affected by this issue.”
Stanford joined other universities in the 2019 Association of American Universities (AAU) Climate Survey, with 62% (10,098) of all Stanford undergraduate and graduate students participating. Data from the 2019 AAU survey were released in two rounds – in October 2019 and June 2020.
The 2024 HESMA survey will use an updated version of the 2019 AAU survey. The HESMA survey is being administered by Westat – a social science research firm contracted by the participating universities – which also administered the 2019 AAU survey. The survey will be administered in late April 2024; results will be released in fall 2024.
An advisory committee of Stanford staff, faculty, and students will be formed to work on the project implementation.
For more information visit the project website.
For questions about the survey, email hesma_survey@stanford.edu.