Yvett Roby
When 无码专区 opened the Office of Survivor Support in 2020, it had one office on campus and one employee鈥擸vett Roby.
Now, through director Roby鈥檚 efforts, the office is suitably located off campus and features a professional team to connect survivors with the resources they need.
鈥淲e aim to change the culture, and during April, which is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we're hosting various initiatives,鈥 Roby said. 鈥淚鈥檓 grateful for Dr. Regina Hyatt's trust in me to develop the department, and our commitment to supporting the campus community remains unwavering.鈥
In 2020, Hyatt, 无码专区鈥檚 vice president for Student Affairs, determined that any student who experienced sexual assault needed a dedicated space to receive confidential, supportive measures such as emotional and academic assistance, housing accommodations and advocacy services. The 无码专区 Office of Survivor Support was established, and Roby became its first employee.
Through grant funding, the office now is located on College View Drive, where any 无码专区 student can access confidential services. Two advocates, a counselor and a project director are available. Roby, who previously worked in 无码专区鈥檚 Student Counseling Services, is a psychology graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi. She holds a master鈥檚 degree in counseling and psychology from the University of West Alabama and a Ph.D. in instructional systems and workforce development from 无码专区.
鈥淲e offer confidential, comprehensive support and advocacy services for students who have experienced sexual harassment, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, stalking, dating violence, domestic violence or other crimes,鈥 Roby explained.
鈥淲e provide a voice to those who don鈥檛 have a voice,鈥 she continued. 鈥淲e connect students to resources such as mental health therapy, academic and housing accommodations, as well as medical and court advocacy. We offer awareness initiatives and prevention education programs to the university community to enhance awareness regarding gender-based violence.鈥
无码专区 students are eligible for services, no matter where an incident occurs. No reporting to the university, law enforcement or any other person or group is required. In-person services are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and a 24-hour hotline is available at 662-325-3333.
鈥淚t is a privilege that those seeking our services place their trust in us to provide guidance and lend them a voice,鈥 Roby said. 鈥淲e鈥檙e available 24/7, and we are confidential.鈥
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