Sexual Assault
If you have been sexually assaulted or are experiencing intimate partner abuse or know of someone who has:
- Go somewhere you can feel safe. Your safety is our first priority. Return to your room, go to a friend’s place, your RA’s room, a classroom or office, or a crowded, public area. If you are near a blue box on campus, you can contact the police from there or by calling University Police at (540) 654-1025, and they will immediately send someone to you. You may also contact the Dean of Students Office (540) 654-1200 or Office of Residence Life (540) 654-1058.
- Calling someone. Call a trusted friend, family, an RA, a trained counselor, or a medical professional at the Student Health Center or Mary Washington hospital (540) 741-1100. Counselors are available on campus and can be reached by contacting the Talley Center for Counseling Services weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at (540) 654-1053.
- Consider receiving medical attention. It’s important to get examined for any physical evidence or injuries, even those you might not be aware of. If you require transportation, consider reaching out to a trusted friend, speaking with your RA, requesting an escort from campus police, or contacting the hospital for an ambulance. The nearest hospital is Mary Washington Hospital, located at 1001 Sam Perry Blvd. Fredericksburg, VA 22401.
- Consider filing a report with University Police (540) 654-1025. University Police can meet with you to discuss your options in terms of pressing charges or filing a report. University Police are trained in handling sexual assault and interpersonal violence cases. If the assault occurred off-campus, meeting with a UMW detective can assist you in filing a report with the jurisdiction in which the assault occurred.
- Consider filing a report with The Office of Title IX at (540) 654-1166 or tix@umw.edu. You can also speak with the Director of Compliance and Title IX/ADA Coordinator, Ruth Davison rdavison@umw.edu or (540) 654-5656. Within the University community, people who are sexually assaulted are encouraged to report any violations of UMW’s Policy on Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment and Other Forms of Interpersonal Violence or Prohibited Conduct Policy as offenders are in violation of UMW’s Sexual Misconduct Policy.
- Consider seeking support. Talking with a trusted friend, relative, RA or a trained counselor who can assist you in taking care of yourself. It is important not to neglect the emotions you may be experiencing as a result of the assault. These people can provide you with the support and care you may need. Talley Center for Counseling Services has counselors trained in issues related to sexual assault and trauma. The RCASA and Empowerhouse also provide individual and group counseling services. At the counseling center, we can help link you with a counselor here or in the community. Please remember, if this happens to you, you are NOT alone and consider seeking out appropriate supports.
- Remember your information will be kept confidential. In seeking support from RCASA, Empowerhouse, or the counseling center, you can feel assured that your personal information will be kept confidential. You have the choice of when or if you decide to report. The counseling center, RCASA, and Empowerhouse are available to offer you support, and it is your decision whether or not to report to the police or The Office of Title IX. However, if you choose to do this, we would be happy to assist you in this process. Per University policy, the Talley Center is required to file a report to The Office of Title IX, however, no personal information or details are required. We simply need to report knowledge of the incident.