Program Need

Why the Program?

College campuses contain a high concentration of women in a very high-risk age group for sexual assault. Here are some of the statistics:

• Women are most likely to be sexually assaulted between the ages of 16 and 24
• The sexual victimization rate is approximately 35 of every 1,000 college women
• 21% of college women experience dating violence
• Not Just a Women’s Issue Anymore! A recent study on sexual assault on college campuses reveals that 62% of college men experience some sort of sexual harassment or assault.

(AAUW 2005)

Why have VIPER at SWOSU?

Part of SWOSU’s mission statement is to “contribute to the educational, economic, and cultural environment; and support scholarly activity,” so SWOSU must continue to develop a campus culture that fosters healthy relationships and does not condone violence toward any SWOSU community member. A community, unbroken by violence and fear, will provide the atmosphere necessary to prepare educated young adults to be successful members and leaders of our society-at-large.

When an incident of violence occurs against members of the SWOSU community, the university must be able to respond appropriately to the needs of the survivor, while holding the perpetrator accountable. When this happens, both the survivor and the community have the opportunity to regain their health.