Dear JMU Parents and Family members,

Welcome to the JMU community. We are so excited to start our new year!

I am writing to you regarding some very important issues at institutions of higher education nationwide and at JMU – alcohol/drug abuse and sexual misconduct.  In recent years we have worked diligently to develop programs, policies, training and services to help us create the safe and welcoming environment we all want at JMU. Through education, prevention, intervention strategies, and counseling, our desire is to create a climate where all may thrive. We use a multi-dimensional approach so that we can reach students in many different ways throughout their tenure at JMU.

I have attached information that you and your student received at Summer Springboard. It includes the training that will be offered during 1787 August Orientation, as well as critical resources, highlights of policies, and selected strategies.  Although it is only a glimpse of our comprehensive approach, I believe that it demonstrates our desire to make a difference in the lives of our students. (The document can be viewed online as well: JMU Safety Guide)

We need your support in helping your student transition into university life. You have made a huge impact on your student and your influence on them is one of the most important factors in their decision-making.  The values you have instilled in them will guide them for years to come and I would ask that you talk with them one more time before they leave home this Fall. Please have an open and honest conversation with them to remind them of what is important to you and to them.

Challenge them, as we will, to live out the values of respect and care for themselves, others, and the larger community. None of us wants our students to have their lives negatively transformed because of poor decisions. We believe that your involvement can be a critical link in promoting positive, healthy behaviors. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of our students.

Our approach has been a collaborative effort involving students, faculty, staff, and members of the Harrisonburg community. We want to add you to that list.

Thank you for your partnership.

Sincerely,

Dr. Tim Miller

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Office of the
Vice President for Student Affairs
James Madison University
91 Alumnae Drive
Alumnae Hall, room 202
Harrisonburg, VA  22807
Phone:  540/568-3685
https://www.jmu.edu/studentaffairs/


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