Dear University of Illinois Faculty and Staff,
I write to you today to clarify faculty and staff expectations for reporting cases of suspected child abuse or neglect. Last year, in light of incidents which allegedly occurred at Penn State, the President’s Office assembled the “Sexual Abuse and Harassment Task Force” to review policy and procedures related to sexual harassment and abuse, Federal and State laws governing this area, and special situations meriting extra attention and oversight involving minors.
This week, Governor Quinn signed Public Act 97-0711 into law, which revises the “Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act” (ANCRA) to mandate that all personnel of higher education institutions report cases of suspected child abuse or neglect to the Department of Children and Family Services at 1-800-25ABUSE. The ANCRA has existed for many years and several positions at the University, including our police, child care, and hospital staff involved in patient care, have been mandated reporters since their hire date. However, the revised ANCRA requires that all personnel be made aware of these responsibilities and be prepared to respond accordingly.
As a result of this legislation, the University will be implementing the mandatory ANCRA education and acknowledgement statement. You will receive further communication from University Human Resources and/or your campus HR office with more details and instructions for understanding and acknowledging your ANCRA reporting responsibility as a University of Illinois employee.
We are committed to the safety and well-being of all members of our community and visitors to our campuses. We appreciate your cooperation in this endeavor.
Sincerely,
Maureen M. Parks
Executive Director and Associate Vice President for Human Resources
