The University of Notre Dame has placed a women's residence hall rector on leave while it investigates anonymous allegations of sexual misconduct made on social media.
The Catholic university confirmed the female rector is on leave pending the outcome of an investigation but has not identified her publicly.
In a statement to OSV News, the university said: "The University takes allegations of sexual misconduct seriously, particularly when persons in positions of authority may be involved, and is conducting an investigation."
It added: "Members of the campus community who experience sexual misconduct are strongly encouraged to report it to law enforcement and/or the Office of Institutional Equity."
The allegations first appeared in June on an Instagram account unaffiliated with the university, which publishes anonymous submissions from people claiming to be survivors of sexual assault, abuse and stalking at Notre Dame.
OSV News said it had chosen not to identify the rector because the allegations are anonymous and uncorroborated. No criminal charges have been brought and the university has not determined the credibility of the claims.
According to OSV News, the university contacted the administrator of the Instagram account after the allegations were posted and encouraged anyone with relevant information to report it through the university's official reporting system.
"Members of the campus community who experience sexual misconduct are strongly encouraged to report it to law enforcement and/or the Office of Institutional Equity," it said.
"Without reporting, our ability to investigate allegations is severely limited and we strongly encourage anyone with information to please reach out."
The investigation comes two months after Notre Dame released an independent report into historic abuse by two Holy Cross priests who previously served as residence hall rectors during the 1980s and 1990s.
The report found the university's response to clergy abuse had been "inconsistent" despite its stated commitment to addressing abuse.
In response, Notre Dame announced a series of reforms, including enhanced safeguarding measures, improved information sharing and expanded support for survivors.
