Hanging with “Sparty” on campus in East Lansing, MI
This week has been one of excitement, learning, and growth as I had the incredible opportunity to consult and provide trainings at Michigan State University. Thanks to hard work by members of the office of Prevention Outreach and Education (POE) I arrived shortly after wrapping up my time in San Diego at the annual EVAWI conference.
Michigan State’s spring week of action aims to raise awareness about sexual assault, connect community members with campus resources and amplify prevention efforts within the MSU community.
POE’s Executive Director, Kelly Schweda reached out to me over a year ago to begin planning for this week and from the get-go, the organizers have run like a well-oiled machine. The thought they put into every aspect of my time and experience on their campus left me with a sense of overflowing gratitude.
On my second day, I had lunch at a local soup shop with MSU PD’s Andrea Munford (you may recognize her) and Dr. Rebecca Campbell (check out her research here). I seriously could have sat there forever listening to these two powerhouses discuss their storied careers, first-hand experiences, and debate the path forward in research and practice.
Among the week’s numerous planned events, I especially loved tie-dying ‘It’s On Us’ tote bags in the unseasonably warm Michigan weather and touring the Center for Survivors.
Everyone travels with their own mini-disco ball, right?
I mean this when I say that the Center for Survivors they have crafted on campus is hands-down the best survivor-centered environment I have ever visited. No detail was overlooked in the creation of this space. I literally had no notes. The MSU Sexual Assault Healthcare Program is staffed 24/7 by specialized forensic nurses. Services are free and available to adults who have been sexually assaulted within the last 5 days.
I was also surprised to find out that East Lansing, MI was at about 98% totality during the solar eclipse. This once-in-a-lifetime experience was so much fun to behold alongside thousands of others all taking a break to enjoy the celestial event outdoors.
Throughout the week, we delved deep into discussions surrounding trauma-informed practices and strategies for fostering resilience within communities. I introduced the Start by Believing campaign to hundreds of fraternity and sorority life students, staff, faculty, and law enforcement. I also had the opportunity to visit the Alpha Phi house on campus and offer a special presentation for my fellow sisters.
Post-training pic with the Alpha Phi’s from MSU’s Beta Beta chapter
It was incredibly inspiring to witness the passion and dedication of the MSU team in their efforts to create positive change. We explored various approaches to prevention outreach, recognizing that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, it’s about meeting people where they are, understanding their unique needs, and offering support in ways that are meaningful and empowering.
As I reflect on my time at Michigan State University, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to be part of such meaningful work. The conversations, connections, and insights gained will stay with me long after I leave campus. But more than that, it’s the sense of hope and possibility that lingers – the knowledge that together, we can make a difference, one response at a time.
So here’s to MSU and all the incredible individuals dedicated to prevention and education. I especially want to thank Garrett, Jodi, and Melissa for their hospitality and “Ubering” skills. Thank you for hosting me, inspiring me, and reminding me of the power of community. Let’s continue lifting each other up and creating a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
