Oakland University is recognizing Sexual Assault Awareness Month this April through campus initiatives, education and resources aimed at supporting students and preventing sexual violence.
The university joins campuses nationwide in raising awareness and encouraging open conversations among students, faculty and staff.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month, observed nationally each April, focuses on raising awareness, promoting prevention and supporting survivors of sexual violence.
The month also emphasizes the importance of consent education and bystander intervention in creating a safer campus environment.
Jessie Hurse, interim dean of students and deputy Title IX coordinator, emphasized the importance of creating a safe and supportive campus environment.
“Sexual assault awareness is important because we need to provide a safe, healthy environment for students to thrive,” Hurse said. “Situations like sexual misconduct or harassment can impact a student’s ability to perform academically and socially.”
Hurse added that issues such as stalking, harassment and intimate partner violence can create significant challenges for students, including impacts on mental health and overall well-being.
Hurse explained that the university offers a range of support for students who may be affected, including counseling services, academic accommodations and connections to off-campus resources such as HAVEN, which provides counseling, advocacy and support for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
“We try to be as supportive and respectful as possible,” Hurse said. “That can include counseling, academic support, or simply giving students the time and space they need to process their experience.”
Hurse added that support varies depending on individual needs, and students are given options to determine what steps they are comfortable taking.
“I don’t move unless you tell me you’re comfortable moving in that direction,” Hurse said. “You dictate the next steps.”
Hurse said students who report incidents are able to make decisions about what steps they are comfortable taking, emphasizing to encourage students that support is centered on the student’s needs.
“Have empathy,” Hurse said. “Be a supportive friend, listen, be present, and help connect them to resources.”
Hurse also noted that students should feel comfortable reporting incidents in order to access available support systems.
Shona Collins, a detective with the OU Police Department, provided materials outlining reporting options and support available to students. Officers are trained to support survivors and respond with care.
“Oakland University Police officers are trained and here to help 24 hours a day,” Collins said. “You will be treated with dignity, courtesy, and professionalism.”
Throughout the month, OU continues to promote awareness through educational efforts and campus programming aimed at informing students and encouraging respectful interactions.
Hurse pointed to initiatives such as the “Love Respectfully” event, held earlier this month, which encouraged open conversations about relationships, consent and sexual health.
The event, previously covered by The Oakland Post, provided students with access to resources while addressing topics that are often stigmatized.
Ann Rayford, director of the Graham Health Center, said discussions around sexual health and related topics can often be difficult for students.
“Sometimes it’s not something that’s talked about. It can be taboo,” Rayford said.
Rayford added that increasing awareness and encouraging conversation can help students feel more comfortable seeking information and support.
By combining awareness efforts, support resources and educational programming, OU aims to foster a campus environment where students feel safe, informed and supported.
As Sexual Assault Awareness Month continues, university officials encourage students to engage in conversations, utilize available resources and contribute to a culture of respect on campus.
