President Faust's response

See below for the text of President Faust's response to the open letter, received via email on 7 March 2018.

Thank you for writing to share your open letter. As I wrote in December, sexual harassment and sexual assault degrade human dignity, and they have no place at Harvard. A central commitment of my presidency has been to ensure that everyone here fully belongs, and I share the sense of hurt, disappointment, and upset that has been expressed so poignantly by students, faculty, and other members of the Harvard community. At yesterday’s FAS meeting, I noted that I will be engaging the senior leadership of the University in the coming days to help address this serious and enduring problem.

Dean Mike Smith conveyed at the same meeting that Professor Dominguez has announced his intention to retire from Harvard, effective June 30, 2018. Between now and then, he will be on administrative leave pending a full and fair review of the situation. He has been relieved of all responsibilities, including the oversight of students and his administrative roles at various centers and units, and he will not be on campus without permission from the dean’s office. The University’s review of the situation will continue unaffected by his decision to retire.

We have much to do to create an environment at Harvard in which everyone can thrive, and I appreciate your and your colleagues’ commitment to that shared goal. As I said to the faculty yesterday, this is work for us all. Thank you, again, for taking the time to write.

Sincerely,

Drew Faust