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The University of Toronto has initiated an independent investigation into allegations about comments made on a closed, online chat app by a group of students in a graduate program at the Rotman School of Management.

Toronto employment lawyer Janice Rubin is leading the independent investigation under the university’s , which covers all members of the community.  Rubin is an expert in the field of workplace investigations.

“These are troubling allegations and we will investigate thoroughly to find out what occurred,” said U of T Vice-President and Provost Cheryl Regehr. “At the same time, we will ensure that any members of our community who may be affected have the support they need.”

Rotman Dean Tiff Macklem said the school will support the work of the independent investigator.     

“At Rotman, we are training the leaders of the future and it is essential that every student, and indeed everyone in the Rotman community, acts with integrity and treats people with respect,” he said.

As part of U of T’s action plan to prevent and respond to sexual violence, the university has established a , which has a presence on all three campuses. Senior staff from the centre are working with Rotman to provide support to its community.

“Everyone deserves a safe environment in which to work and to learn,” Regehr said.  “The university is committed to addressing sexual violence in all its forms.”