The Offices of Violence Prevention and Title IX are excited to announce the upcoming Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) Symposium on Wednesday April 3, 2024 from 2:00 – 4:15PM in the Trustees Pavilion.

Please join us on April 3, 2024 for the SAAM Opening Proclamation, a resource fair featuring student research, and student and faculty speakers from 2-3PM, followed by breakout sessions from 3-4:15PM. Together, we can make a difference in promoting a safer and more connected community. Refreshments will be served.

Symposium Schedule: 

2:00 – 3:00 PM: Resource Fair
2:15 – 2:25 PM: Welcome Remarks and SAAM Opening Proclamation by Dr. Cindy Jebb
2:25 – 2:35 PM: Remarks by Prof. Donnalynn Scillieri, MA
2:35 – 2:45 PM: Remarks by Office of Violence Prevention Violence Intervention Peer Alexis Ruhlen
2:45 – 3:00 PM: Remarks by New Milford Councilman Matthew Seymour
3:00 – 3:15 PM: Resource Fair (Cont.)
3:15 – 4:15 PM: Breakout Sessions:

• Breakout Session Option 1: Transformative Connections: Exploring Awareness, Agency, And Allyship (Student-Focused Session)
  Join us for a transformative workshop focusing on sexual assault awareness, agency, and allyship. In this session, we will delve into the intricacies of assessing the health of our relationships, learning to recognize common red flags and signs of controlling and manipulative behaviors. Participants will also explore strategies for reclaiming control over their lives and situations, including finding help and safety, and understanding what to expect when reporting. Additionally, we will discuss the importance of allyship, learning how to recognize when a friend is in trouble and how to offer the best support, balancing listening and taking action effectively. This workshop aims to empower students with knowledge and skills to create safer and more supportive communities. Presenter: A. Gerri Budd, PhD, Managing Partner, Peace in Action LLC
• Breakout Session Option 2: Building Connected Communities: Responding to Student Disclosure of Sexual Assault (Faculty and Staff-Focused Session)
  This session is dedicated to equipping educators, mentors, and campus leaders with the tools and knowledge to effectively respond to disclosures of sexual assault among students. Through interactive discussions and case studies, participants will learn best practices for supporting survivors, including active listening techniques, trauma-informed approaches, and resources for both immediate and long-term support. The workshop will also address the importance of creating safe and inclusive environments that encourage survivors to come forward, seek help, and begin the healing process. By fostering understanding and empathy, this workshop aims to empower communities to respond sensitively and effectively to student disclosures of sexual assault, ultimately building stronger, more connected communities. Presenters: Donnalynn Scillieri, MA., Managing Partner, Peace in Action LLC;
  Kat McGee, J.D., Director of Title IX, ADA and Compliance Training, Ramapo College of New Jersey

Sponsored by: The Office of Violence Prevention, The Women’s Center & LGBTQ+ Services, The Office of Title IX, the Student Government Association, YWCA Northern New Jersey healingSPACE, Alternatives to Domestic Violence, and The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office.