MSUM Stands Against Sexual Violence: Championing Title IX Awareness and Campus Safety

According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization, sexual violence on college campuses is pervasive.

• 13% of all students experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitation (among all graduate and undergraduate students).
• Among graduate and professional students, 9.7% of females and 2.5% of males experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitation.
• Among undergraduate students, 26.4% of females and 6.8% of males experience rape or sexual assault through physical force, violence, or incapacitation.
• 5.8% of students have experienced stalking since entering college.

As Sexual Assault Awareness Month comes to an end, we’re thankful for MSUM’s Dean of Students and Title IX Coordinator Kara Gravley-Stack and her team for coordinating training and education about the university’s sexual violence policy to ensure a safe a community for all.

Title IX is a federal law passed in 1972 that prohibits any institution receiving federal money from discriminating based on sex.

“Campuses across the country have increased their efforts at sexual violence prevention work and education,” Kara said.

Sexual assault, harassment, partner violence, and stalking are all considered part of Title IX. Reporting is always open to those who have experienced or are experiencing any of these forms of assault.

The Dean of Students Office and Public Safety are locations where assault/violence/stalking/harassment reports can be made. MSUM Counseling Services is a confidential resource where students can seek support. The Title IX webpage provides resources, reporting, and training. Lisa Kremer, case manager at Counseling Services, can make referrals to health services like Sanford or Essentia, connecting students with health care providers for physical and mental health appointments.

If a student has experienced sexual assault, they may request moving to a different resident hall or taking time off to go home. MSUM supports students in any way possible, Kara said.

“Faculty have been overwhelmingly supportive of any reason that we’ve asked them to excuse students.” she said, “Making sure their education isn’t interrupted so they can return when they’re ready.”

Title IX is an integral part of MSUM’s athletics programs. It's essential to ensure women's and men's sports are equal. Providing comparable opportunities allows our campus to grow and pushes us toward equality and out of discrimination. Gender equity in athletics does not stop at opportunities to participate; it continues to offer equal opportunities for scholarship funds.

Sexual assault and discrimination have no home at MSUM. Ever. If you have experienced assault or discrimination, please use the provided resources to report it and find support. Visit Kara or her team at the Dean of Students Office or visit their website.