ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — As conversations continue about sexual assault and campus culture, Cornell University is taking another approach in improving safety on campus, restoring confidence, and offering better support for survivors of sex assault.

President Michael Kotlikoff says an agreement was signed Thursday, Oct. 29 between Cornell and New York State Police on investigations into sexual assault. The agreement, which takes effect immediately, enables “sexual assault survivors who elect to pursue criminal charges to choose whether to have State Police or Cornell Police serve as the designated investigatory agency on their cases,” Kotlikoff said.

The new deal is in place at the same time as a comprehensive review into Cornell’s handling of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and other related misconduct on campus. That investigation is being led by former Deputy US Attorney Sally Yates.

“Sexual assault cases managed by State Police will be independent from Cornell, with State Police overseeing the investigation and any referrals for prosecution,” Kotlikoff added. “Cornell Police will assist state law enforcement partners with these investigations as requested, providing investigatory assistance and preserving and contributing relevant records and evidence. All university and student records, including education records, remain protected by all applicable laws.”

Survivors will also have an option to choose between Cornell Police, the Ithaca Police Department, and the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office to conduct a criminal investigation.

Meanwhile, Cornell is also working with Sheriff Derek Osborne on creating a special victims unit within the Sheriff’s office to handle cases about sex assault and child abuse.