Statement of Vice Chancellor for Public Affairs Beth Fortune on April 8 verdict

The jury has spoken. Our first thoughts are with the victim and the incredible strength she has shown, and continues to show, both throughout the investigation and the legal proceedings. Our heart continues to go out to her as she has endured this retrial. This case has had a lasting impact on us allOn our campus it has helped raise awareness of and dialogue around the issue of sexual violence. The Vanderbilt community’s efforts to combat the threat of sexual violence continue. As part of these efforts, we appreciate our strong working relationship with the Metro Nashville Police Department – a partnership that helped deliver today’s verdict and some measure of resolution for the victim. Sexual violence will not be tolerated at Vanderbilt – incidents will be investigated, victims will be supported and perpetrators will be held accountable.