Best Practices In Notifying College Students

Colleges and universities in the United States are required to disclose information about crimes committed on and around campus, as pursuant to Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act.  

One of our staff members received the following message from Millersville University.

"It is estimated that nationwide 20 percent of women and six percent of college men experience sexual assault or attempted sexual assault during their college years.  Data reveal nearly 50 percent of transgender people experience sexual violence.  No matter the demographic, the most common type of sexual assault is not committed by a stranger but by someone known to the victim, typically a date or other acquaintance.

There are risk factors associated with sexual assault, about which it may be useful to be aware, but being at risk in no way shifts responsibility for sexual assault to a victim/survivor. 
Studies of sexual assault show a high correlation between acquaintance rape and drug/alcohol use.  Alcohol and drugs are often used by assailants to make someone vulnerable to sexual assault. Be alert to people who pressure you or others to use a drug or consume alcohol. Don't leave your drink unattended while talking, dancing, using the restroom, or making a phone call. If you've left your drink alone, throw out the drink. Someone incapacitated due to alcohol or drugs cannot consent to any sexual activity.


If you feel uneasy about a situation -- as someone vulnerable or as a bystander -- trust your instincts and attempt to interrupt the chain of events.  Being an active bystander doesn't require you put yourself at risk.  Create a distraction, involve friends or call for help. Make a commitment to ensure everyone has a safe way home, i.e., a trusted friend or escort. If you believe a crime has been committed call the police at 911. The Millersville University Police Department provides a safety escort from 11 p.m. – 7 a.m. available by calling 717-872-3433."

I view this message as a great example of how to notify students that a sexual assault has occurred.  It gives the information required by the Clery Act, but also takes the opportunity to educate the student body about sexual assault.  


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