Posted: Wednesday, November 6, 2024

The University of Evansville (UE) has secured a nearly $400,000 grant from the United States Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women, to fund and create Project Safespace, a new initiative focused on preventing and addressing sexual assault, domestic and dating violence, and stalking on campus.

This project will benefit all UE students, with a special focus on supporting LGBTQ+ students, students with disabilities, and international students.

Project Safespace will bring together campus and community partners, including the Evansville Police Department, Albion Fellows Bacon Center, and local LGBTQ+ service provider Matthew 25. Through workshops, training sessions, and awareness programs, UE will work to foster a safe campus environment. Activities will include training for bystander intervention and educational programs about healthy relationships.

"We want to create a culture where students feel empowered to speak up and foster an environment that promotes safety for everyone," said Keith Gehlhausen, Executive Director of Human Resources & Institutional Equity. "Project Safespace will help us continue to build a campus community where everyone feels safe and supported."

UE plans to implement this project over the coming years, guided by a new Project Director and input from students who will help shape ongoing efforts.