JMU committed to confronting sexual violence

James Madison University offers a wide range of programs aimed at raising awareness about and confronting the issues of sexual assault and sexual harassment.

The Campus Coalition Against Sexual Assault is a dedicated group of faculty, staff and students who hope to stimulate dialogue in the JMU community around issues of sexual violence. By educating our community on preventing and responding to sexual violence, the coalition contributes to a campus climate that is inclusive and supportive of all survivors.

The University Health Center also provides programming and services rooted in primary prevention of sexual and intimate partner violence, and offers confidential advocacy services that provide students with a supportive way to navigate their options and resources.

The health center also supports and advises student organizations like Campus Assault ResponsE, The Men’s Program and Reality Educators Advocating Campus Health. It collaborates to sponsor professional speakers, trainings and events on campus that bring awareness to these issues and show support for survivors. Nationally known events and campaigns like Take Back the Night, The Clothesline Project and The Red Flag Campaign help underscore the impact sexual and intimate partner violence can have on the lives of everyone in our community.

Further, JMU offers a range of services through the Counseling Center’s Sexual Trauma Empowerment Program, including immediate crisis assistance, individual and group counseling, and consultation. Certified counselors provide survivors with a safe and confidential environment to explore their sexual trauma and how it may be affecting other aspects of their lives. Support groups for survivors of sexual trauma and a women’s process group are guided by counselors and provide a space in which students can share their experiences, discover that they are not alone and gain encouragement by observing the successes of others.

The Counseling Center also acts in an advocacy role for sexual trauma survivors with medical, judicial and legal referrals, while also engaging in university-level efforts to better respond to and support the needs of survivors.

To assist with accessing resources, see Survivor Advocacy Resources.

“We are committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for every member of the JMU community,” JMU President Jonathan Alger said. “We must strive to protect all of our students from sexual harassment and assault, and do everything in our power to promote a safe learning environment.”

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