Dear UCR, please set boundaries for our sexually harassing professor

The Issue

We are members of the university community, encompassing students, professors, and staff, striving to cultivate a safe and nurturing academic environment. Unfortunately, there have been recurring instances of harassment by Professor Rich Yueh against students, which not only compromise the integrity of our educational institution but also deeply affect the well-being and mental health of those involved. It is time to address this critical issue by setting clear boundaries and demanding accountability to safeguard our entire community.

Professors are entrusted with the responsibility of educating and guiding students, facilitating their intellectual and personal growth. When this trust is violated through harassment, it causes irreparable harm and creates a hostile learning environment. According to a 2021 survey by the National Center for Educational Statistics, approximately 7% of students reported experiencing harassment from faculty, highlighting the urgency of the problem.

To protect both students and the university's reputation, it is imperative to establish comprehensive policies that define unacceptable behavior, provide a clear course of action for victims, and enforce disciplinary measures against offenders. We propose the following steps to bring about meaningful change:

1. Develop a mandatory training program for professors focused on proper conduct and communication boundaries.
2. Implement an anonymous reporting system where students can safely report incidents without fear of retaliation.
3. Create a dedicated task force consisting of students, faculty, and administrative staff to oversee the investigation and resolution of harassment claims.
4. Enforce strict disciplinary action against those found guilty of harassment, ensuring both transparency and accountability.
5. Provide robust support systems for victims, including counseling services and academic accommodations.

To cultivate an environment where education is paramount and students feel valued and protected, we need to hold professors accountable and establish strong support systems for victims. Join us in urging the university administration to adopt these measures swiftly and ensure a respectful and secure educational experience for all.

Sign this petition to help create a safe academic environment for everyone.

602

The Issue

We are members of the university community, encompassing students, professors, and staff, striving to cultivate a safe and nurturing academic environment. Unfortunately, there have been recurring instances of harassment by Professor Rich Yueh against students, which not only compromise the integrity of our educational institution but also deeply affect the well-being and mental health of those involved. It is time to address this critical issue by setting clear boundaries and demanding accountability to safeguard our entire community.

Professors are entrusted with the responsibility of educating and guiding students, facilitating their intellectual and personal growth. When this trust is violated through harassment, it causes irreparable harm and creates a hostile learning environment. According to a 2021 survey by the National Center for Educational Statistics, approximately 7% of students reported experiencing harassment from faculty, highlighting the urgency of the problem.

To protect both students and the university's reputation, it is imperative to establish comprehensive policies that define unacceptable behavior, provide a clear course of action for victims, and enforce disciplinary measures against offenders. We propose the following steps to bring about meaningful change:

1. Develop a mandatory training program for professors focused on proper conduct and communication boundaries.
2. Implement an anonymous reporting system where students can safely report incidents without fear of retaliation.
3. Create a dedicated task force consisting of students, faculty, and administrative staff to oversee the investigation and resolution of harassment claims.
4. Enforce strict disciplinary action against those found guilty of harassment, ensuring both transparency and accountability.
5. Provide robust support systems for victims, including counseling services and academic accommodations.

To cultivate an environment where education is paramount and students feel valued and protected, we need to hold professors accountable and establish strong support systems for victims. Join us in urging the university administration to adopt these measures swiftly and ensure a respectful and secure educational experience for all.

Sign this petition to help create a safe academic environment for everyone.

The Decision Makers

Dean of Students, University of California, Riverside
Dean of Students, University of California, Riverside
Chancellor of University of California, Riverside
Chancellor of University of California, Riverside
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