Violence against women – including dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking – is a serious problem on college campuses, as it is in the larger community. The Buffalo State College community has made a commitment to creating a campus where you will feel safe for who you are and who you wish to become. This includes a commitment to prevent and respond to incidents of sexual violence, intimate partner violence (dating or domestic violence), stalking, and sexual harassment.
Creating a safe campus is a responsibility shared with every member of the Buffalo State community. We expect that you will look out for yourself, your friends and your companions, making sure you stay out of harm’s way. And, if someone’s health or safety is at risk, we expect you will call for help.
The information provided here is intended to help you
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increase your understanding and awareness of these sexual violence, relationship violence, and stalking
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take steps to avoid becoming a victim
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know what to do and who can help if you do become a victim
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and to give you some suggestions on helping a friend or family member who has been victimized.
Violence and the fear of violence can disrupt the working and learning environment. The effects are costly, not only to individual victims but to the whole community. Power-based interpersonal violence (sexual assault, relationship violence, and stalking) is a problem on all college campuses as it is in the community. Buffalo State is committed to addressing these issues by providing prevention education programs, holding offenders accountable, and providing support services to victims/survivors.
Liz McGough coordinates the Violence Intervention & Victim Advocacy (VIVA) program, providing leadership to address power-based interpersonal violence within the Buffalo State College community. We work closely with campus and community partners to establish an environment that supports and empowers victims/survivors and challenges a culture that accepts power-based interpersonal violence. For more information, go to the VIVA website at http://www.buffalostate.edu/deanofstudents/viva.xml.
