Throughout the year, the OSVPA create opportunities for Connecticut College students to engage in a number of awareness and prevention events and campaigns. You might participate in Green Dot or Consent trivia at dinner in Harris, write Green Dot thank-you cards in Cro, or attend a workshop in the LGBTQIA Center. 

There are many ways to get involved, including becoming an intern or joining SafetyNet, the office's Peer Education organization. Or, simply attend an event or show your support during Domestic Violence Awareness Month or Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Internships

The Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Advocacy interns work closely with the director to set a vision for programming regarding the prevention sexual violence, domestic/dating violence and stalking. They are responsible for coordinating the SafetyNet Peer Educators and help develeop and facilitate awareness and prevention events and activities. 

Become an intern

Applications for interns are accepted in the spring for the next academic year. The entire Division of Institutional Equity and Inclusion uses a common application for all student staff positions, including OSVPA Interns. Those who are interested in applying to become an intern are highly encouraged to attend a DIEI Student Staff info session to learn more about the position requirements and application process-- these info sessions will be announced early in the spring semester.

If you are interested in becoming an intern, please contact Nicole Powell, director of sexual violence prevention and advocacy, at spowell2@conncoll.edu. (Please note: Due to reporting structures, Housefellows and Floor Governors cannot be interns but can be members of SafetyNet.)

Basic requirements

  • Must be a Green Dot graduate
  • Must be committed to the cause and interested in social engagement to raise awareness regarding sexual violence, dating violence and stalking
  • Must have the ability to collaborate with faculty, staff, students and community members to provide educational programming and foster an environment that truly engages students to act with integrity, civility and the utmost respect for the dignity of all human beings as inspired by the Connecticut College Honor Code
  • Must support the Division of Institutional Equity and Inclusion's mission, vision, and commitment to social justice
  • Must have excellent communication and organizational skills and feel comfortable speaking in front of groups
  • Must be able to work both independently and as a member of a team
  • Must demonstrate respect for and sensitivity to others and maintain confidentiality within the office to ensure compliance with FERPA laws
  • Must be in good academic, social and judicial standing

SafetyNet

SafetyNet is the peer education component of the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Advocacy and is composed of sophomores, juniors and seniors who are trained on the topics of sexual assault, dating violence and stalking.

These students provide educational programs to student groups and residence halls and assist in planning awareness activities throughout the year. 

Mission

The mission of Connecticut College’s SafetyNet is to use our role as peers to influence the campus community through education, awareness and prevention strategies in order to foster a safer, more proactive and engaged environment that will ultimately reduce the occurrence of power-based personal violence.

Become a SafetyNetter

Students who are passionate about the issues of dating/domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking are encouraged to apply in the spring for the next academic year. Email spowell2@conncoll.edu for an application.

Basic requirements

  • Must have sophomore, junior or senior academic status
  • Must be willing to commit to at least two semesters of service
  • Must conduct other trainings as required with the director of sexual violence prevention and advocacy
  • Must attend mandatory events, including Fall and Spring SafetyNet training sessions, campus awareness projects, annual breakfast meeting, etc.
  • Must participate in projects and chair at least one project per year
  • Must staff informational booths as needed

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October has been recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) since 1987 and is signified by a purple ribbon. To raise awareness during this time, the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Advocacy sponsors many events, including These Hands Don’t Hurt, Purple Ice Night, The Clothesline Project, Purple Ribbon Campaign, film screenings, speakers, and more. 

To learn more or get involved, email spowell2@conncoll.edu.

Sexual Assault Awareness Month

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, which is represented by a teal ribbon. Numerous events are sponsored during this month, including the campus Speak Out, Rock the Dot A Cappella Challenge, Supporting a Survivor Workshop, and "Coffee & Consent" workshops. 

To learn more or get involved, email spowell2@conncoll.edu.

Our programs are also regularly listed on the Connecticut College Online Calendar of Events.