Out aim is to engage the SMU community in addressing and preventing sexual violence, relationship violence, sexual or gender-based harassment and stalking.
We believe in fostering a culture that prioritizes consent and respect. As a part of these efforts, we work to engage all members of the university community to create a healthy environment where violence in any form is not tolerated.
SMU encourages campus community members to learn more about sexual misconduct and to get involved in our community's efforts to end it and support those who have experienced it.
We want to connect you with students and faculty and staff members who are taking action against sexual misconduct. Call 214-768-4512 or join our SMU 360.
Students involved in raising awareness of sexual assault and relationship violence include SMU Peer Health Educators and student organizations including:
Student Advocacy and Support, the Women & LGBT Center and Counseling Services coordinate and provide educational and prevention programs on sexual misconduct.
The Office of Institutional Access and Equity also provides education on Title IX and the University's Title IX Harassment Policy.
SMU Police provide crime prevention education and self-defense training to the campus community.
Education for incoming students includes a required comprehensive online course and an informational program before the first week of the fall term. All students are required to take Wellness courses, which provide information on respectful relationships.
Campus-wide programs include Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Relationship Violence Awareness Month, National Night Out and Take Back the Night. Programs also are available to individual classes, Residential Commons and Greek organizations upon request.
Students involved in raising awareness of sexual assault and relationship violence include the student organizations Not On My Campus; the Feminist Equality Movement (FEM); and Wellbeing Education Student Team (WEST).
To learn more and get involved, call Student Advocacy and Support (OSAS) at 214-768-4512 or join our SMU 360.
Report suspicious people or activities, such as a person you don't recognize following students into a Residential Commons. Call SMU Police at 214-768-3333 or report anonymously at 214-SMU-2TIP.
When you are first getting to know someone, exercise caution and make sure others know where you are.
If you see someone who needs assistance, intervene or call 911. When you're out with friends, don't leave anyone behind; check that everyone returns home safely.
If you or a friend is in danger due to drinking or drug use, call 911 immediately. Students who seek medical help for themselves or others normally will be exempt from discipline for alcohol and drug violations under SMU's Medical Amnesty and Good Samaritan policies.
Never drink from an open container that has been out of your possession for any length of time. If you think you or others with you may have been drugged, seek medical attention immediately and call police.
Be aware of the location of blue-light phones across campus. They connect directly to SMU Police.
If a friend tells you that he or she has been sexually assaulted, listen and urge your friend to call police or speak with a professional, such as a confidential counselor at SMU Counseling Services; 214-768-2277. Remember that sexual assault can happen to anyone and that sexual assault is not the victim's fault.
Communicate your expectations on physical contact, and obtain consent before engaging in any form of sexual activity. Recognize that a person has the right to change his or her mind, and don't use force, coercion or threats. SMU's Title IX Harassment Policy and the federal law Title IX prohibit sexual misconduct, including sexual assault. Sexual assault also is a crime punishable by imprisonment from two to 20 years plus a fine up to $10,000. Sexual misconduct will not be tolerated at SMU.
The use of alcohol or drugs does not justify or excuse behavior that constitutes sexual misconduct.
Learn more about sexual misconduct and our community's efforts to end it. Violence Prevention & Support Services (214-768-4512) and the Women & LGBT Center (214-768-4792) are among those who can connect you with students, faculty and staff who are taking action against sexual misconduct.
To request a presentation regarding violence prevention or bystander intervention for your class, Residential Commons, student or Greek organization, please contact:
Student Advocacy & Support (OSAS)
call us at 214-768-4512 or join our SMU 360