Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention on USD’s Campus

With two sexual assaults reported at USD in the last two weeks, it is important to be informed of resources on campus and the steps taken by officials to keep campus safe.

The University Police Department offers multiple training courses, such as self-defense and situational awareness that gives students tools to enhance their personal safety.

Another resource available for students is the Everbridge mobile safety app, which enables quick emergency services and safety notifications in an instant. 

USD has also required incoming freshmen to take a Title IX information course to ensure everyone has a basic understanding of rights, responsibilities and resources in regards to sexual misconduct. Bystander intervention training is another requirement for freshmen, so students can be informed of the skills needed to safely intervene in questionable situations.

Bryant Jackson, Chief of Police, said, “The University Police Department (UPD) collaborates closely with multiple campus departments to address and prevent sexual violence through a coordinated and community-focused approach.”

UPD works hand-in-hand with the Title IX Office, participating in outreach efforts and assisting with educational programming and presentations. Officers also collaborate with the Dean of Students Office and Residence Life to ensure timely communication and coordinated responses when concerns are reported,” Jackson said.

The university has also incorporated guest speakers as a way to get the message to students about sexual assault awareness, along with PAVE-USD (Promoting Awareness, Victim Empowerment) who has put together programs in relation to the topic.

Ashley Lemons, Title IX Coordinator, said, “Prevention and education are always evolving on campus. Right now, we are working with several departments, including UPD, SRR, Dean of Students, Housing and Student Counseling, to expand training opportunities and bring more students into these conversations.”

We have also placed Title IX informational postcards in bathrooms across campus, each with a QR code that links to the reporting form. This offers a more private and accessible way to get support or make a report,” Lemon said.

Students also have the advantage of the USD counseling center to voice their matters, along with access to 24/7 Coyote Care, a helpline that connects students to licensed mental health professionals.

“We encourage students/staff/faculty to attend upcoming events and ask professors to invite us to speak in class. Your voice, awareness, and engagement help us build a safer, stronger community,” said Lemon.