Sexuality

At the University of Richmond, as on other campuses, there is increased openness in discussing divergent views about sexuality as a moral, ethical, relationship, and health concern. Your student will be exposed to the full range of sexual attitudes and behaviors among the University of Richmond students, just as she or he would in any heterogeneous community. There are many opinions and practices among college students today, which include heterosexual and homosexual behavior, promiscuity and abstinence. This range includes those males and females who are comfortable and secure in their developing sexuality and those who are not. Students usually are willing to respect the attitudes of fellow students who differ in their code of sexual behavior.

The University cannot impose a common morality on its students; rather, it supports a climate that values the pursuit of knowledge, and the freedom to express divergent viewpoints. Many students find that their attitudes relating to sexuality will be challenged. They may be forced to do some hard thinking about their own attitudes and may modify their own behavior, or their views about human sexuality generally. The process of grappling with different perspectives can help students develop and solidify the values by which they will guide their own lives. The Wellness Center (URWell) offers periodic workshops on various sexual health topics.

Like any other community, the University must sometimes confront the issue of sexual assault. Any sexual harassment or assault is absolutely in violation of the Student Code of Conduct and the Sexual Harassment Policy, as well as state law. If your student were to be involved in any way with an incident of sexual harassment or assault, there are Sexual Assault Advisors (including counselors, doctors, residence life staff, chaplains, police) to support and advise students concerning the emotional, medical, legal and social issues involved. Emergency medical care is readily available. A brochure explaining the University policy, services and resources is distributed to each student at the beginning of each academic year. See Campus Sexual Assault Prevention Programs and Services for additional information. In addition, the student peer educator group “Stealing Home” presents preventive educational programs and serves as supporters to students dealing with a sexual assault experience, whether as survivor or friend, . University Police maintain crime statistics; however, these are limited to on-campus, “founded” crimes and cannot be assumed to reflect all of the actual experiences of students. Be assured that if your student needs help, many professionals and students in our community are immediately available to them.

The University non-discrimination policy applies to sexual orientation. A diverse community, the University includes people with various sexual orientations and many attitudes and beliefs on this issue. The purpose of the campus organization Safe Zone Virginia is “to reduce homophobia and heterosexism on our campus and thereby make it a safer and freer environment for all members of our community regardless of sexual orientation.” This group includes students, staff and faculty willing to assist others in thinking about the topics of sexuality and sexual diversity, as both personal and institutional concerns. The student group New Directions provides educational programs to the campus community and social events for GLBT students and allies.

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