The ULM Counseling Center and students explored popular myths and surprising statistics about sexual
assault at a seminar on Tuesday.
“Sexual Assault is a very relevant topic that needs to be addressed campus-wide, especially with new, incoming students who are
especially vulnerable,” said Traci Boyett, professional counselor at the ULM Counseling Center.
The Counseling Center tries to provide at least one sexual assault outreach event each fall.
According to Boyett, 90 percent of rapes that occur on college campuses are committed by a person the victim knows.
Members of the staff also stressed that students should be cautious of alcohol abuse and be sure to look out for one another in alcohol related situations.
Guest speakers Corporal Bobby Poisso of the ULM police department, and Katrina Branson, assistant
director of human relations, also attended the event.
Lindsey Fontenot, a freshman undeclared major, said the seminar was an eye-opening experience.
“When it comes to parties, I know I will definitely stick with my friends now,” Fontenot said. “I don’t want to find myself in a dangerous situation.”
According to Poisso, many
students underestimate crime in the Monroe area.
“Monroe is ranked 14 in the nation in major crimes per capita. We’ve been very lucky to keep crime rates down on this campus,” Poisso said.
Branson encouraged all
students to report sexual misconduct
immediately, even if it’s something that has occurred in the past.
He ensured that a thorough investigation will be conducted in every case, and that both parties will be
given rights.
Branson encouraged all students to report sexual misconduct
immediately, even if it’s something that has occurred in the past.
“My role is to ensure that students get the help they need when they are involved in cases of sexual
harassment, sexual assault or
bullying,” Branson said.
Branson, in addition to being the assistant director of human
relations, is also the university’s Title IX
coordinator.
Students can visit ulm.edu/titleix to report sexual misconduct, access resources and seek confidential help.
The ULM Counseling Center will be hosting two more sexual assault seminars on Oct. 9 in Masur Hall and on Oct. 16 in Ouachita Hall.
