Standing against sexual assault: Resources and support on campus

By Mylee Santos 

A variety of support services are available for students who want to report sexual assault or misconduct, members of the Student Government Association were told at a recent meeting.  

A number of college officials spoke at the October 6 meeting to address safety issues and concerns. Particularly, sexual assault cases on campus. 

One of the major concerns addressed during the meeting was addressing sexual assault cases on campus. 

Ali Hicks, director of Community Standards and Deputy Title IX Coordinator, said the college takes the issue seriously. 

“Most of the time we receive reports through RAs and RDs or our online reporting form,” Hicks said. 

The first time a student reaches out, they will set up a meeting to discuss further support and resources available to them. 

“Supportive measures are supports. They cannot be punitive to anyone at this stage,” she said.  

The school’s first concern is accompanying someone whether they need help to get into housing services, medical help, academic support, or no contact orders. 

The next step is up to the victim. 

“Under the law, we cannot do anything unless a victim asks us to do so,” said Hicks. 

Once the victim has written a request to start an investigation, that is called a written signed formal complaint, which allows further actions to be taken. 

Stonehill Police Sgt. Paul Parlon outlined what happens after a victim files a formal complaint. 

“If the victim wants to get it into court, if the victim decides that’s the way they want to go, the rest assure that we will do it from top to bottom and present the best case possible,” said Parlon. 

Lt. Matthew Gorham, who handles Administrative and Investigative Services, described what a timely warning is.  

When a case is brought to the attention of the school, timely warnings are sent out to provide students, faculty, and staff safety tips on ways to protect yourself, he said. 

Arianna Gulbis, director of Residence life, said it was important to feel comfortable and communicating with your Resident Assistants and Resident Directors. 

“[RAs and RDs] are your peers and student leaders, who take on this very important role to build community, support residents and have a positive living environment,” said Gulbis. RDs are on call 24/7 and there to provide guidance in whichever situation a student may need. 

Maria Kavanaugh, director of Counseling Services, said counseling services are available for students, whether they are overwhelmed, confused, or need help in any way. 

“We really pride ourselves in being a bridge to other resources,” said Kavanaugh.  

Lydia Hogan, Health and Wellness coordinator as well as advisor for Take Back The Night, said there are a number of resources available in her office. 

“The goal of my office is really to provide support, education, and resources for students,” said Hogan. 

She said there were a wide arrange events and trainings on campus hosted throughout the year, including sexual assault prevention workshops, Narcan training, alcohol safety labeling, and bystander intervention trainings. 

The Take Back The Night club on campus is open to all students, its main priority is to raise awareness around sexual assault prevention and share resources. Take Back The Night has also held discussions with campus police to build better relations and explore more safety resources/events. 

Maria Sullivan, director of Health Services, said health services are available to all students and appointments are appointment-based. The office is open Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Health services has a strong relationship with an organization in Brockton called, A New Day, where healthcare imperatives provide help and advocacy for people who experience sexual assault. This resource is open for all students and remains confidential. 

Kristine Smith, coordinator of Community Standards, ends the meeting talking about the role she plays in policy violations and extended help that is provided throughout all resources on campus. 

“As you’re navigating, this new awareness that you have, of the process and the supports that are available to your peers, always remember that regardless of a student’s position in a case, that all folks in this room are here to help both parties,” said Smith. 

Listed below are a number of resources that are available for all students. 

Community Standards: (508) 565-1323 

Residence Life: (508) 565-1290 

Campus Police: (508) 565-5555 

Counseling Services: (508) 565-1331 

Health and Wellness: (508) 565-1544 

Health Services: (508) 565-1307