Stanford University released the results of its 2024 Higher Education Sexual Misconduct and Awareness (HESMA) survey on Monday, revealing key insights about the prevalence of sexual misconduct and harassment within the student population according to the Stanford Report. The survey, conducted by the research firm Westat across 10 participating universities, aims to assess and improve institutional responses to sexual misconduct in higher education.
Administered between April 30 and May 30, 2024, Stanford’s survey achieved a 43% participation rate—the highest among the schools involved—representing 7,583 students.
The complete findings, including detailed Stanford-specific data, national comparisons, summaries, a glossary of terms, and confidential resources for those seeking support, are accessible on the Sexual Assault and Misconduct Surveys data website.
The Findings
According to the research and data company, Westat, the survey estimated the prevalence rate of nonconsensual sexual contact by force or inability to consent. This type of sexual misconduct involves behaviors and tactics that are specified in legal definitions for rape and sexual assault, as well as Clery Act crime statistics requirements. The prevalence rate for this type of misconduct varied significantly by gender and affiliation. The rate since the student first enrolled in school:
- Among undergraduates, women (18.9%) and nonbinary, transgender, questioning, or self-identified students (21.1%) had rates three times higher than men (6.5%).
- The survey revealed that rates of nonconsensual sexual contact by force or inability to consent decreased between 2019 and 2024.
- Relatively few victims of nonconsensual penetration by physical force or inability to consent made contact with a program or resource after the incident (32%).
- A significant number of students experienced sexual harassment:
- Overall, 18.7 percent of students reported sexually harassing behavior that met the federal standards defining sexual harassment.
- The rate of sexual harassment decreased slightly between 2019 and 2024.
- The prevalence rate since first enrolling in school of intimate partner violence was 8.3 percent.
- The prevalence rate since first enrolling in school of stalking was 5.8 percent.
- The prevalence of intimate partner violence and stalking did not change between 2019 and 2024.
- A majority of students (57.6%) believe that a school official will take a report of a sexual assault seriously.
“We Need to Do Better,” Says Provost Jenny Martinez
Provost Jenny Martinez acknowledged the sobering reality reflected in the survey findings. “This survey confirms that sexual misconduct and violence remain troubling issues, both on our campus and in society at large,” Martinez said. “Even though our results are comparable to other institutions, it is disheartening to see how high the numbers remain. Despite our focused efforts, the progress hasn’t been as meaningful as we had hoped. We must do better.”
The 2024 survey used an updated framework from the 2019 AAU Climate Survey to account for new insights into sexual misconduct. The results show that many students reported experiencing non-consensual sexual contact or harassment during their time at Stanford.
Improving Programs and Addressing Gaps Since 2019
Stanford has taken several steps to address sexual misconduct since the 2019 survey. Following an external review, the university streamlined its approach by consolidating multiple sexual misconduct-related offices into the SHARE / Title IX Office, enhancing efficiency and collaboration. Additionally, Stanford has strengthened student education efforts by increasing staffing and launching programs like PEERs (Prevent, Educate, Empower, Refer), which empowers students to serve as health educators in areas such as substance abuse, sexual violence prevention, and mental health.
Impact of COVID-19 on Survey Comparisons
Martinez noted that comparing results from 2019 to 2024 is complicated by disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, including remote learning, social restrictions, and a higher number of students taking leaves of absence. “What’s clear,” she said, “is that we have not made enough progress. These issues remain serious, and we must recommit ourselves to meaningful change. Transparency in sharing these results is a step in the right direction, and we appreciate the students who shared their experiences. The more we understand, the better we can shape effective solutions.”
Ongoing Commitment to Safety and Accountability
The HESMA survey is part of Stanford’s broader initiative to address sexual misconduct. The university also publishes annual Title IX reports, which document efforts to prevent harassment, assault, and gender discrimination, as well as its responses to reported incidents.
All survey responses were collected anonymously to protect participants’ privacy. An advisory committee made up of Stanford faculty, staff, and students worked together to guide the survey’s implementation.
By examining these findings and continuing to engage with students, Stanford aims to foster a safer, more inclusive environment for the entire campus community.
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