As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, so too must the laws that govern campus safety. Recently, there was a significant update adding hazing to one of the most critical pieces of legislation in this arena – the Jeanne Clery Act. I had the opportunity to initiate discussions surrounding the Clery Act’s renaming as part of that process.
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, commonly known as the Clery Act, has been instrumental in ensuring transparency and accountability in campus safety since its enactment in 1990 (initially as the “Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990”). However, its old names no longer fully encompassed the wide array of issues it now addresses, from sexual violence to emergency management and beyond.
I suggested that renaming the act to the “Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act”, a name I’d seen used informally to refer to the law, would better reflect its current scope. The idea was to:
- Clarify the Law’s Comprehensive Nature: The term “Campus Safety” would highlight the law’s focus on a holistic approach to safety beyond just crime statistics.
- Encourage Broader Support: By emphasizing “campus safety,” institutions might be more inclined to engage with and support the law’s initiatives.
- Strengthen Safety Efforts: A name that reflects contemporary issues could foster a more robust response to safety concerns on campuses.
This suggestion gained traction with support from key organizations like the Clery Center, who endorsed the change on behalf of the Clery family. Their backing was crucial in bringing this proposal to the attention of lawmakers.
The name change was officially adopted as part of the Stop Campus Hazing Act, a piece of legislation that also aims to bolster prevention and reporting of hazing incidents. This integration illustrates how legislative changes can work in tandem to address multiple safety issues on campuses.
I’m humbled by the support this initiative received and grateful for the collaborative effort from all stakeholders. This renaming is more than just symbolic; it’s a step towards ensuring that our campuses are safer places for learning and growth. It continues to honor Jeanne Clery’s legacy while aligning the law with the realities of modern campus life.
Thank you to everyone who supported this change – from colleagues and organizations to members of Congress. Here’s to continued efforts in making our educational environments safer for all.
