January 26, 2025

Greenville Launches Institute to Combat Campus Sexual Violence

News Summary

The City of Greenville introduces the Institute on the Prevention of Sexual Violence on College Campuses, aimed at enhancing student safety in South Carolina. Under the leadership of Executive Director Matthew Hammett, the initiative seeks to eliminate barriers posed by sexual violence, offering grants and educational resources for colleges. This strategic move, supported by Lander University, aims to foster a culture of respect and healthy relationships among students while organizing statewide events to raise awareness.

City of Greenville Welcomes New Institute Focused on Preventing Sexual Violence on College Campuses

In a significant step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of students in South Carolina, Governor Henry McMaster, along with the General Assembly, has established a groundbreaking initiative: the Institute on the Prevention of Sexual Violence on College Campuses. This innovative institute is chartered at Lander University and is proudly based at the University Center of Greenville.

A New Leader at the Helm

Heading the institute is Executive Director Matthew Hammett, who brings with him an impressive 12 years of experience in the field of sexual violence prevention. Having officially stepped into his role in January 2024, Hammett is ready to tackle the complex issues surrounding sexual assault on college campuses head-on. The vision for this important initiative was first proposed by Lander University President Richard Cosentino, who recognized the urgent need for such a focused approach.

What’s the Vision?

The primary goal of the Institute is to remove barriers created by sexual violence, thus fostering an environment where students can thrive and grow personally and academically. It’s a mission that’s not just about addressing the immediate concerns of campus safety but also about nurturing a culture of respect and healthy relationships among students.

Commitment to Safety

The commitment to preventing sexual violence has reached the highest levels within Lander University, as the Board of Trustees has designated it as a strategic pillar of the institution. This kind of support is essential for creating a holistic approach to address issues that impact student life across campuses.

Financial Support for Colleges

The Institute is also stepping up with financial aid, having awarded a total of 17 grants exceeding $60,000 to various colleges and universities in South Carolina. These grants are intended to support innovative proposals aimed at preventing sexual violence, and eligible institutions are encouraged to apply.

Training and Educational Resources

To further enhance its impact, the Institute is busy developing a range of training materials and educational curricula. These resources focus on prevention strategies, promoting healthy relationships, and instilling a strong sense of respect among students. The collaboration with local rape crisis centers aims to extend educational programs and support services throughout the state, ensuring accessibility for all students in need.

Upcoming Events

multi-day statewide conference. This event will feature experts specializing in sexual violence prevention and support. Attendees can expect valuable discussions and insights that will empower them to make a difference on their campuses.

Looking Ahead

Future initiatives from the Institute might include offering research grants designed to further understand sexual violence and develop innovative solutions tailored for prevention. This commitment to research underscores the importance of a data-driven approach in formulating effective prevention strategies.

Excitement for the Future

As the Institute grows, there is palpable excitement about the possibilities it holds. The focus on sexual violence prevention is crucial for the success of students and the improvement of campus culture across South Carolina. With the expertise of Director Hammett leading the charge, there is a strong sense of optimism about the future and the lasting impact that the Institute will have.

In summary, the launch of the Institute on the Prevention of Sexual Violence on College Campuses marks a significant milestone for South Carolina. Through education, resources, and community engagement, this initiative is poised to foster a safer, more respectful environment for students statewide.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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Lander University Spearheads Statewide Initiative to Combat Sexual Violence on College Campuses

Additional Resources

Author: HERE Greenwood

The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.

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