The council was not quite so lucky with administrators last night, as a series of miscommunications with Assistant Dean of the College Karen E. Avery '87 led to Avery's missing the discussion on rape, at which she was scheduled to be a panelist. Avery is the dean who deals with cases of reported sexual harassment and assault.

Much of the debate at the forum on sexual violence centered on criticism of how College policy deals with the issue, especially the process by which rape cases are brought to the Administrative Board.

"I don't think that the Ad Board deals with cases of sexual assault very well," said David B. Orr '01, a member of the Coalition Against Sexual Violence.

Complaints against the Ad Board, voiced by several discussion participants, included its lack of what Orr called an "impartial advocate" for victims, its inability to get access to physical evidence and the length of time that it often takes to resolve cases.

Rabia Belt '01-'02, who was involved in planning the event, also voiced her doubts about the Ad Board's efficacy.

"Is something that is set up to deal with plagiarism also equipped to deal with felony crimes?" she asked.

In its defense, a Harvard University police sergeant said the Ad Board is one of many options students have available to them. Another student pointed out that a benefit of the Ad Board over the legal system is the anonymity it provides accusers.