Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

What does the Office of Sexual Assault Prevention (OSAP) do?

OSAP is part of the University Health Center and works with all faculty, staff, and students concerning issues of sexual assault prevention and healthy, safe relationships.  We are responsible for programs during orientation; we offer support services including counseling, support groups, crisis intervention, programming and referrals.  Our office is dedicated to the process of all students learning about healthy choices.

Where is OSAP located?

Warren Campus Center, Room 404.

I've heard about Hillary Wing-Richards, what does she do?

Hillary is the Associate Director of the Office of Sexual Assault Prevention and Women's Resource Center.  She is also the advisor to CARE and One in Four.

Are men allowed to receive services?

YES!  We are very aware that men can be, and are assaulted as well.  Men who are secondary survivors (i.e., friends of victims) are encouraged to use our services.  Our philosophy encompasses men helping to fight violence against women.

If I talk to someone from OSAP about a personal experience, will it go on my record?

The guidelines of confidentiality prohibit anyone in OSAP from divulging your name and information.  Anything you discuss will remain confidential.  The only limitations to confidentiality would be if you express intent to hurt yourself or someone else; then we would be obligated to report that information.  Your visit to our office will not go on your academic record.

Is the Women's Resource Center (WRC) part of OSAP?

Yes, it is a place where JMU students, both men and women, can relax or gather information about women's issues from our extensive library.  The WRC is responsible for many programs throughout the year, like Take Back The Night, The Clothesline Project, and brown bag lunches.  We are always looking for additional volunteers! 

I've seen flyers for CARE, what exactly do they do?

CARE is the Campus Assault ResonsE hotline.  Victims or friends of victims of sexual assault can call 24 hours a day and speak with someone who has been trained in sensitivity response.  The phone conversation is confidential and CARE members can refer a caller if he/she is in need of other information or support.  The number is 568-6411.

What is the Sexual Assault Survivor's Support Group?

This group supports survivors of sexual assault.  We meet 11-12 times a semester at a scheduled time.  Members of the group decide what to discuss and how the group will run.  A support group is formed every semester and a survivor can join at any time.  All information shared is bound by the same confidential guidelines as the Office of Sexual Assault Prevention.  Please call 568-2831 for more information.

Does OSAP provide HIV testing for victims of assault?

We are not directly responsible for HIV testing, but the University Health Center provides free anonymous HIV testing.  The test and results are confidential, and HIV counselors have been trained to go over the results with students.

How do I make an appointment with the Office of Sexual Assault Prevention?

You may call 568-2831 or stop by Warren Hall, Room 404.  We are here to help!

What kind of programming is available to students?

Check out our programming website for more information.

What kind of action is taken against sex offenders at JMU?

We suggest you contact the Office of Judicial Affairs to get this information.

How does JMU rank among other colleges and universities as a safe campus?

All college campuses have reported date rapes and many do not have the services JMU offers.  Alcohol and acquaintance or date rapes are problematic and, therefore, our office strives to educate all students about safe relationships.  For statistics, contact the Office of Public Safety.

Can you estimate the percentage of victims of reported assaults who do not press charges?

Many victims do not report due to fear of not being believed or being found responsible for underage drinking or the fear their parents will find out. 

Could you briefly explain the University's definition of "third party reports?"

This report is made confidentially, either by the victim or a person who knows the assault took place.  It is often made to an office like ours and the victim then decides not to report to police.  There is no name on the report other than the person taking the information.  Third party reports are generally related to incidents where the victim wishes not to report the matter to police or university security officials for referral to an internal university disciplinary body for adjudication.