University of Evansville Secures $400,000 Grant from Department of Justice to Create Project Safespace

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University of Evansville Secures $400,000 Grant from Department of Justice to Create Project Safespace

EVANSVILLE, IND. (11/06/2024) 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.

The University of Evansville is a private, comprehensive university with a solid foundation in the arts and sciences and professional schools in business, engineering, education, and health sciences. Established in 1854, UE is recognized across the globe for its rich tradition of innovative, academic excellence and dynamic campus community of #Changemakers.