While in college, one in 5 women and one in 16 men are sexually assaulted. However, more than 90% of sexual assault victims on college campuses do not report the assault.
Although Gustavus is a relatively small school it is still susceptible to dangerous situations. It is important for students to remain not only cautious, but aware of what the college’s policies and resources are.
In the event of an assault, Gustavus has a Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) which is made up of faculty and staff who have been trained to be advocates for students who have experienced sexual assault. A member of the team is available 24 hours.
1 in 5 women and 1 in 16 men are sexually assaulted while in college
Gustavus also encourages students to utilize outside resources such as the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) and Citizens Against Domestic and Sexual Abuse (CADA).
Should the survivor choose to move forward and report the offender, Gustavus has established a prescribed procedure to assist and support survivors of rape or sexual assaults.
Students are encouraged to seek medical attention, regardless of whether or not they wish to report the assault to the police.
From there, students have the option to file a report with the Saint Peter Police Department, file a conduct case through Gustavus’ Student Conduct System, and/or obtain a no-contact agreement through the college.
More than 90% of sexual assault victims on college campuses do not report the assault.
Filing a report with the Saint Peter Police Department results in an investigation of the crime which includes gathering evidence and further incident information. This includes filing criminal charges with local law enforcement authorities.
A student may also choose to file an official complaint through the college against the other student.
Lastly, a student has the opportunity to request a no-contact agreement which requires the accused to remain out of contact with the survivor.
Students who wish to file an official complaint against another student follow a predetermined procedure set in place by the college.
First, a formal complaint must be made to the Dean of Students. This can be made in person, in writing, or orally. This complaint is not the beginning of a criminal investigation.
After receiving the complaint, the Dean of Students will meet with the student who has filed the complaint and discuss their options and how they wish to proceed. The student may not elect to pursue the resolution further, or may pursue Formal Resolution.
Should the student wish to refrain from pursuing Formal Resolution, further investigation is decided by the Dean of Students. However, if the individual wishes to pursue a Formal Resolution, the accused student is sent a formal complaint detailing the charges.
Both the student filing the complaint and the accused student are entitled to both an adviser and up to two supportive resources throughout the resolution process. Advisers may include legal counsel. Students’ advisers and resources may be present during any meetings pertaining to the case.
A member of the Gustavus Assault Response Team (SART) is available 24 hours.
Upon receiving a formal complaint to pursue Formal Resolution, the complaint is brought a trained Investigator who will conduct interviews, gather evidence, and complete a summative Investigative Report. From there, the Sexual Misconduct Board will determine if the accused student has violated policy and is responsible.
Every situation is different, but individuals are encouraged to report the assault and reach out to various support services both on and off campus.
Safety is of the utmost importance on a college campus and students are encouraged to be aware of their support and resources.
RAINN 1-800-656-4673
CADA 507-625-3966
SART 507-933-6868
Sexual Assault Response Team
Jill VanOsdol x7524
Kelli Miller x7630
Patricia Dawson x7630
Sara Sletten x7457