Winter Intercession normally means a time of rest and relaxation for the Ohio University community, but the Women's Center was nothing but busy heading into the new year.
The center received $100,000, the first of three installments of its Violence Against Women on Campus grant Dec. 1. Two more installments will be received over the coming years, meaning some major changes will take place.
If you get a grant like that
you don't start overnight said Susanne Dietzel, director of the Women's Center.
A good portion of the funds will go toward the salary of a new program coordinator, who will also serve as a victims' advocate for those who have been affected by sexual assault. Between 2006 and 2008, there were a total of 25 forcible sex offenses reported to the OU Police Department, according to the 2009 Clery Compliance Report.
Dietzel stressed the responsibilities and the importance of the person who will eventually fill the position.
This person must know how to be an advocate Dietzel said.
The program coordinator will also present options for moving forward to victims of sexual assault so that they can be open about their experience and encourage others to do the same, Dietzel added.
Sexual violence is one of the most underreported crimes
she said. Victims rarely want their names revealed and Dietzel hopes that the program will empower women to come forward.
In addition to beginning the search for a coordinator and advocate, the Women's Center spent a portion of Winter Intercession working on a program designed to educate the OU community on the seriousness and prevalence of sexual assault.
It's a two-way process
Dietzel said, referring to the fact that the program requires the education of both campus and community members through the Women's Center.
The new program will take place in locations such as dorms and classrooms. Police officers and university staff members will also be trained to serve as advocates against sexual assault.
Most likely beginning Fall Quarter 2011, all incoming freshman will be required to participate in an online version of the program, which is similar to AlcoholEdu.
We really need to spread awareness about the program
Dietzel said.
Dietzel is also excited about the opportunities the grant presents to the Women's Center, especially since it was highly competitive.
At a time with a tight budget
it's a time for us to grow
she said.
The creation of the program also means a bright year ahead for the center.
It's a really wonderful opportunity for the community and the campus
Dietzel said. We've been needing it for a long time.
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