Press "Enter" to skip to content

New app created to decrease sexual violence

This semester, Bradley introduced a free smartphone application that allows students to easily access policies, reporting options and other services regarding sexual assault.

Reach Out – College Edition is now available in Google Play and the Apple App Store and features customized material such as contact information for offices and resources for students.

It is a Bradley-specific resource guide containing comprehensive information about the on and off campus support services available to student survivors of sexual misconduct,” Anne Hollis, executive director of the Center for Student Support Services, said. “All of the resources within Reach Out are conveniently organized into easy-to-understand categories and subcategories.”

One of Reach Out’s resources, Ethics Point, gives students the opportunity to anonymously report harassment and discrimination incidents. The app is private, so users are not required to share any identity information.

The safety of our community should not have to be compromised due to sexual violence, assault or harassment,” Stephanie Horjes, a graduate student studying counseling, said. “Individuals come here with the mindset that they will be safe while away from their permanent home. This mindset should not be tainted through the negative actions of perpetrators.”

Reach Out accompanies the Preventing Sexual Violence in Higher Education Act, a law that outlines requirements for universities in Illinois regarding policies and response to sexual violence on campus. Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner signed the act, which was fully implemented on Aug. 1.

Bradley consistently works to provide quality services and resources to any Bradley member who has experienced sexual violence,” Hollis said. “This new law serves as an additional resource to ensure we are doing all that we can for the students.”

Bradley already fulfilled many of the requirements of the law because they overlap with Title IX, Campus or Clery requirements. Violating the university’s sexual misconduct policy can result in a variety of punishments, including expulsion.

Bradley takes reports of sexual misconduct seriously and is prompt in responding once we are made aware of any situation,” Hollis said. “Through the Office of Student Conduct, Bradley will continue to hold those responsible for sexual misconduct accountable for their actions.”

The university also works to prevent sexual assault though education during freshman orientation and H.E.A.T) (Help, Empower, and Teach) presentations. The app contributes to raising awareness with educational videos for students to learn more about sexual violence.

I believe this app is 100 percent in the right direction for Bradley,” senior public relations major Collette Pfledderer said. “It’s such a great addition to campus because it can help out someone who needs something as simple as the Safety Cruiser’s phone number to something as serious as reporting options for a situation involving sexual misconduct.”

Copyright © 2023, The Scout, Bradley University. All rights reserved.
The Scout is published by members of the student body of Bradley University. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the University.