To the Journal editor:

I am writing in regard to the suspension of Dominick Dotson (from Northern Michigan University) for his efforts to survey students on the handling of mental health issues.

I am sure that his intentions are good and he has my sympathy. He did, however, violate university policy.

It is important to understand that this policy is not arbitrary, but is basically required by the federal government for any institution doing research on human subjects. Failing to comply could compromise the university’s ability to do any research going forward.

As a member of the Institutional Research Board, I can assure him that if … had submitted his proposal in compliance with policy, it would have been reviewed to assure issues of subject confidentiality and potential benefit and likely approved with or without minor alterations.

Many such projects are approved every year.

I am sorry that Mr. Dotson has to learn about this the hard way. I hope that the university will deal with him leniently.