CSC takes a stronger look on sexual assault

Chadron State College has taken a tougher stance concerning sexual assault, CSC President Randy Rhine said Friday during the all-campus meeting.

“The campus is obligated to investigate every mention of sexual assault,” Rhine said, “whether the cops are involved or not.”

Title IX of the 1972 Education Amendments requires colleges and universities receiving federal funding to combat gender-based violence and harassment, and respond to survivors’ needs in order to ensure that all students have equal access to education.

Nebraska State College System board policy 3020; Sexual Violence or Sex Harassment Reporting, Policies and Procedures; further outlines how the state college system maintains Title IX compliance.

Shelley Dunbar, human resources director and Title IX coordinator, says that the college is taking steps to improve reporting and training among campus staff to ensure a safe environment for all students.

“We want to ensure that students are free from having to face sexual violence so that they can continue with their education,” Dunbar said Tuesday.

A White House initiative launched last spring brought nationwide attention to the issue of sexual assault in higher education. President Obama has urged colleges and universities to take a more proactive approach to preventing sexual harassment and assaults on and off campus.

“We are sensing a heightened awareness and sensitivity to this issue in, not just colleges, but institutions across the country.” Pat Beu, senior director of student affairs, said, citing recent actions taken by the Department of Defense to curb military sexual assault.

According to the Department of Education’s Office of Postsecondary Education, CSC reported two instances of sexual assault that occurred in on-campus student housing facilities between 2010-12.  Statistics for 2013 are not yet available to the public.