I understand that this has been a long and stressful week for many in the Hilbert College community. I regret that I have been unable to be on campus during the last few days. Ultimately, I am proud and thankful for the way students, faculty, and staff have responded. I understand there has been heightened emotions and that the community has overwhelmingly responded with professionalism, patience, and genuine caring for one another and for that, I thank you.
I want to take a moment to clarify several items. A statement made by the Erie County District Attorney’s office today on the local news made an inaccurate assertion that Hilbert had not been forthcoming with information regarding this student situation and labeled us as non-cooperative. I want to emphasize – that we have and will continue to support law enforcement, especially given our long-term collaborative relationship with the Town of Hamburg Police Department. All requests made by the Town of Hamburg Police Department were fulfilled by Hilbert College. We informed the District Attorney’s office, when asked, that all evidence and files were turned over to the Town of Hamburg Police Department, at their request.
At all times, the safety and security of our students is our highest priority. We followed our safety procedures and protocols as the situation unfolded.
We have heard our students’ concerns and we do not take them lightly. We will continue to adhere to the judicial process put in place on our campus, as we are required by law.
It is also important to note, student records including disciplinary records are covered by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). We cannot comment on any of these details.
We continue to work collaboratively with the Hamburg Police and thank you for participating in yesterday’s open forum. We understand that you, as students, remain frustrated that we are unable to share more information about this due to FERPA rules.
However, be assured, we will continue to provide you with additional updates as this situation evolves.
Cynthia Zane
President
Hilbert College