I want to thank the sponsors of this series on Hate Crimes and Hate Groups for allowing me a few moments prior to today's session to speak about hate crimes and the campus community. This series of public discussions is very timely. In the past few weeks we have witnessed a number of events on campus and in the local community that are rooted in hatred, violence, prejudice and discrimination. They include sexual assaults, hate mail, the harassment of African American students, and the harassment of gay and lesbian students. I am personally disheartened and saddened that any member of our community would be the target of such hateful acts.

These anti-social behaviors might not be the work of organized hate groups, but those who engage in such craven acts share a trait with hate groups--the intent to threaten and intimidate, not just individuals, but entire communities of people.

I want to convey a clear message: Penn State University will not tolerate such behaviors, nor will we stand by and allow members of our community to be threatened or harmed physically or emotionally. We are one community, and harm to any part of our community is harm to all. We must not allow these senseless acts to divide us; rather we must join forces to deplore racism, sexism, homophobia, and anti-Semitism and other religious harassment. We must combat sexual violence. We must ward off all forms of discrimination that seek to find a home here.

I have spoken openly and clearly on these problems numerous times in the past. As an institution we have invested heavily in educational programs, workshops and community forums designed to combat these social ills. Apparently, some people think we are not serious about these convictions. They continue to violate our community standards in the belief that there will be no repercussions. Nothing could be further from the truth, and no one should underestimate our resolve. 

Prevention of such behavior is our first priority, but when acts of hatred occur, our next priority must be to find and prosecute the perpetrators. Thus, I want to announce that I am establishing a special fund that will provide reward money to any individual whose information leads to the arrest and conviction of anyone under federal or state criminal law for actions that harass or communicate threats, intimidation, or harm to members of the university community.

The details of this fund will be worked out in the coming days, but I did not want this occasion to pass without sending the message that we take seriously all attempts to compromise the safety and security of our University and community. As an institution of higher learning we will never give up on the power of education to transform attitudes and reform behavior. Yet it is just as clear that education alone is not sufficient to secure the well-being of our University.

I hope you gain new insights from today's program and come away determined to join with me and all champions of civility, respect, and equality in the struggle for a peaceful, just and safe Penn State.