USMA Continues Focus on Culture of Dignity and Respect

WEST POINT, N.Y. – The Department of Defense released its annual findings today for the Report on Sexual Harassment and Violence at the Military Service Academies noting the U.S. Military Academy reports of unwanted sexual contact increased from 50 to 56 during the academic year 2017-18.

“Sexual misconduct, in all forms, directly impacts readiness and will not be tolerated,” said Lt. Gen. Darryl A. Williams, academy superintendent. “This type of behavior is contrary to a culture based on Army Values and requires a relentless and persistent focus through education, awareness, vigilance and discipline. We are prioritizing additional resources toward cadet character development and reinforcing our leadership and the chain of command in this essential effort.”

Although USMA prevalence numbers appear to trend upward, there are strong indications cadets trust academy leadership and advocacy programs to provide the support and care they need. When comparing the 2016 to 2018 survey results, it showed increased trust in leaders to make honest and reasonable efforts to stop sexual assault and sexual harassment.

The academy’s approach to improving its culture is part of a long-term and deliberate effort, fully nested within the West Point Leader Development System. West Point remains committed to promoting positive behavior through a comprehensive character-education program, which employs a variety of methods to emphasize the importance of building and maintaining healthy and positive relationships.

We remain committed to providing a safe and secure environment leveraging our two greatest strengths: Army values and strong leadership within the chain of command. Our goal is to create a climate where all staff, faculty members, and cadets are valued and treated with dignity and respect, so they can reach their full potential of professional excellence and service to our nation.

About West Point

The U.S. Military Academy at West Point is a four-year, co-educational, federal, liberal arts college located 50 miles north of New York City. It was founded in 1802 as America's first college of engineering and continues today as the world’s premier leader-development institution, consistently ranked among top colleges in the country. Its mission remains constant— to educate, train, and inspire the Corps of Cadets so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character committed to the values of Duty, Honor, Country and prepared for a career of professional excellence and service to the nation as an officer in the U. S. Army. For more information, go to https://www.westpoint.edu.