University of Illinois officials say a rise in reported sexual misconduct cases against employees was likely spurred by the #MeToo movement, mandatory employee training and a new online way to file complaints.
The (Champaign) News-Gazette reports that the university's Office of Diversity, Equity and Access handled about 50 sexual misconduct cases involving faculty, staff or student employees in both 2016 and 2017. That's an increase from 30 cases in 2015 and 26 cases in 2014. The cases included sexual or gender-based harassment, dating violence, stalking and sexual assault.
The data are separate from complaints filed by students against other students.
Office Director Heidi Johnson says many complaints are from former students and employees regarding events that took place many years ago. She says reporting likely has been encouraged by the national #MeToo movement.
