Sexual Assault and Relationship Violence

Illinois State University is concerned about the safety and well-being of its students, and it is important for students to know where to turn for help and what to do in the case of sexual assault. Confidential Advisors are available in Student Counseling Services (320 Student Services Building, (309) 438-3655). Confidential Advisors are NOT required to report sexual assault incidents to the university, unlike more university faculty and staff. Confidential Advisors can:

Provide confidential information on reporting options and possible outcomes, resources and services, survivor rights and orders of protection/no contact orders/"Contact Restrictions"
Liaise with other resources and assist with contacting resources and filing a report
Assist with accessing interim protective measures and accommodations

Additionally, Illinois State’s Sexual Assault and Relationship Violence coordinator, Danielle Beasley, is available to provide information and support, and assist with ongoing recovery needs. Services are free and confidential and students are encouraged to seek services. The coordinator can be reached directly at (309) 438-3756, or an appointment can be scheduled through Student Counseling Services at (309) 438-3655.

Treatment and support services are available to anyone who is assaulted, whether it is by a stranger, casual acquaintance, close friend, or date. Although most victims of sexual assault are women, men are also victims. Healing from sexual assault is impeded by silence, denial, and self-blame. Healing is helped by seeking the support of others. One of the most important things a survivor of sexual assault can do is seek help and support. Know that you are not alone, and that what happened to you is NOT your fault, you are not to blame. A survivor is never responsible for their victimization.

The university is committed to both supporting your well-being and safety and acting to ensure the safety of our campus community and has therefore, established procedures for addressing incidents of sexual misconduct/assault and relationship violence. The survivor, however, determines his/her level of participation in this process. Additional information on resources, reporting options and university procedures is available at TitleIX.illinoisstate.edu.

Students Ending Rape Culture

Students Ending Rape Culture (SERC) is a registered student organization that seeks to educate the campus community about sexual violence, raise visibility of rape culture, and support and empower survivors of interpersonal violence. SERC members work together to equip the campus community with the knowledge and tools necessary to recognize and interrupt situations which perpetuate rape culture (i.e., a culture where sexual violence is normalized, trivialized, and rationalized). For membership information visit Wellness.IllinoisState.edu/students/serc.

You can follow SERC on Instagram, Facebook, and Redbird Life.