In an effort to ensure the protection of minors – individuals who have not reached their 18th birthday – while attending programs, camps, and other events held on the University of Delaware property or in University facilities, the University has adopted three new policies.

Compliance with these policies guarantee programs with minors on University property will also satisfy the requirements of the Beau Biden Law.

The policies are as follows:

• Minors on campus (sponsored or organized by the University): This policy is applicable for programs sponsored or organized by University employees, volunteers, and/or organizations on behalf of or in the name of the University.

• Minors on campus (sponsored or organized by third parties): This policy is applicable for programs sponsored or organized by third parties.

• Reporting of suspected child abuse: This policy addresses the mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse and/or neglect.

Each program is required to register with the University and have adequate sign-in/sign-out procedures and an appropriate number of adult supervisors based on the ages of the participants. Requirements for the staff and volunteers include background checks and training.

Jessica Rickmond, the associate director and Title IX investigator in the Office of Equity and Inclusion, will work with the program organizers to assist each program with compliance with the policy. Besides maintaining an inventory of all programs with minors, the associate director will also conduct audits to confirm compliance.

Those who would like to host a program with minors and need additional information can visit the Protection of Minors website or contact Rickmond in the Office of Equity and Inclusion at protectionofminors@udel.edu or 302-831-8063.