Immaculata University was among 39 institutions of higher education and postsecondary schools in Pennsylvania to be awarded a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) for the It’s On Us campaign.

Former Governor Tom Wolf established It’s On Us PA, the nation’s first statewide campaign to combat campus sexual assault and violence, nearly seven years ago and has made Pennsylvania a national leader in improving campus safety. Immaculata received $40,000 to fund various programs and initiatives related to the grant.

Janelle Cronmiller, associate dean of students and Title IX coordinator, who oversees Immaculata’s It’s On Us grant, said, “We want to continue to be part of the solution and the resources provided by the It’s On Us grant continue to allow Immaculata to enhance sexual assault prevention education, better support survivors and foster an inclusive learning environment.”

To achieve these goals, the university will work with the Crime Victim’s Center of Chester County (CVC), Inc. and the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County. These community partnerships allow the University to offer specialized training, professional victim advocates, counseling, and 24/7 victim support hotline for University faculty, staff and students.

Immaculata is also planning a series of events to coincide with Domestic Violence Awareness Month and inviting guest speakers on topics such as victim-blaming, intervening as a by-standers, identifying dangerous situations and understanding consent. Other tangible activities include trauma-informed yoga sessions, a book club and an ongoing educational program on building and maintaining healthy relationships.

In addition to training and activities, funds for It’s On Us allow the university to offer campus-wide virtual training through Vector Solutions. This comprehensive software is used to facilitate effective prevention training; educate on early detection, sexual violence, sexual misconduct, and supporting at-risk populations; and effectively review university programing efforts.

“Every member of the Immaculata community plays a role in maintaining a safe learning environment,” said Cronmiller. “The conversation is constant and evolving and we are grateful for the additional opportunities to engage and support our community through the It’s On Us grant.”

Learn more at Immaculata University.