President Ruth V. Watkins reaffirmed the University of Utah’s commitment to safety after the campus community was alerted to a police investigation into a sexual assault last week.
“We are committed to providing resources and education to combat interpersonal violence and fostering a safe and supportive campus community,” she said in an email to campus.
As the investigation continues, police have increased campus patrols and added additional courtesy escorts, which are available 24-hours-a-day by calling 801-585-2677.
“Events like this remind us of the importance of raising awareness and learning how we can all step in and speak up to prevent sexual assault,” said Dean of Students Lori McDonald. “April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) and another opportunity to learn about the resources and support services available.”
A variety of informational events are scheduled, both online and in person, through the month, and all are encouraged to participate and learn more.
[bs_well size=”md”]
TEAL SPACE KICKOFF
Tuesday, April 2, 2019 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Marriott Library Plaza
Join the SAAM committee, It’s On Us and Center for Student Wellness for a dialogue about sexual violence prevention, sign a pledge and pick up information about campus resources. Don’t forget to check out the engaging art installation that will be on display.[/bs_well][bs_well size=”md”]
Sexual Assault Awareness Month introduction
Tuesday, April 2, 2019 | 12 p.m.
University of Utah on Instagram
If you can’t show up in person, tune into the U’s Instagram account to check out Teal Space.[/bs_well][bs_well size=”md”]
RESILIENT U: A CONVERSATION ABOUT HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS
Thursday, April 4, 2019 | 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Sicilano Auditorium, Gardner Commons
Join a guided conversation with Elizabeth Cowley from the One Love Foundation about what healthy relationships look like and how to spot red flags early and when and where to connect to campus resources.
This event is sponsored by Resilient U: Healthy Relationships Working Group. President Ruth Watkins commissioned the working group to raise awareness and spark conversations about healthy relationships and is part of campus-wide efforts to enhance safety at the U.[/bs_well][bs_well size=”md”]
HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS TRAINING WITH ELIZABETH COWLEY
Friday, April 5, 2019 | 10 a.m. | 11:45 a.m. | 1:15 p.m.
Union Pano East
Elizabeth Cowley from the One Love Foundation will provide three training sessions on healthy relationships—what a healthy relationship looks like, how to identify an unhealthy relationship and how to help a friend and helpful resources.
Free pizza will be served during the 11:45 a.m. session.[/bs_well][bs_well size=”md”]
THOUGHTFUL DISCUSSION AND RESOURCE REVIEW
Monday, April 8, 2019 | 3:30-4:30 p.m.
University of Utah on Instagram
Tune into the U’s Instagram account for a thoughtful discussion and review of resources provided by the LGBT Resource Center and the Center for Student Wellness Victim-Survivor Advocates.[/bs_well][bs_well size=”md”]
BYSTANDER INTERVENTION
Tuesday, April 9, 2019 | 12-1:30 p.m.
Marriott Gould Auditorium
Interested in learning how to deescalate harm in various situations? Join the Center for Student Wellness health educators for a stimulating workshop filled with discussion and activities. Snacks provided by Marriott Library.[/bs_well][bs_well size=”md”]
COFFEE WITH COPS
Thursday, April 11, 2019 | 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Marriott Library Plaza
Enjoy a coffee and/or donut while chatting with campus police officers. Get familiar with the services they provide for the campus community.[/bs_well][bs_well size=”md”]
SURVIVOR SUPPORT DISCUSSION
Monday, April 15, 2019 | 12-1 p.m.
University of Utah on Instagram
Tune into the U’s Instagram account for information on the Women’s Enrollment Initiative, Women’s Resource Center and University Counseling Center, as well as information about how each office supports survivors.[/bs_well][bs_well size=”md”]
CAMPUS AND FEDERAL POLICY DISCUSSION
Monday, April 22, 2019 | 3:30-4:30 p.m.
University of Utah on Instagram
Tune into the U’s Instagram account to learn about campus and federal policy from Office of the Dean of Students and Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action.[/bs_well][bs_well size=”md”]
LAST DISCUSSION
Monday, April 29, 2019 | 12-1 p.m.
University of Utah on Instagram
Tune into the U’s Instagram account to close out a great month with the SAAM committee.[/bs_well]
U students Marissa Castillo and Nene Maruta are peer health educators in the Center for Student Wellness working on the Violence Prevention Team and co-chairing on the SAAM committee.
“I want to promote SAAM as a way to fight back, a way to heal and a way to advocate for other victims,” said Maruta. “As a student, I know many students do now know about resources for incidents like these on campus, or about their Title IX protections or how to talk about and ensure consent. We’re here as a peer resource to make a difference on campus.”
Below is a list of some campus offices that are available to the U community.
- Center for Student Wellness (victim-survivor advocates, bystander intervention training): 801-581-7776
- University Counseling Center: 801-581-6826
- Women’s Resource Center: 801-581-6402
- Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action: 801-581-8365
- Office of the Dean of Students: 801-581-7066
- Department of Public Safety: 801-585-2677
For more information about related SAAM events, visit wellness.utah.edu/SAAM.