Official Unveiling of the New Sexual Violence Support Centre at Bishop’s University

Bishop’s University is proud to announce the official unveiling of the new Sexual Violence Support Centre (SVSC), reaffirming its commitment to addressing sexual and gender-based violence within the Bishop’s community.

The SVSC has relocated to a newly dedicated and inclusive space in Cormier House, designed to enhance the work of Sexual Violence Response Advisors (SVRAs) Gabrielle Joncas-Brunet and Noémie Thibault. This space serves as a central hub for providing confidential, trauma-informed and survivor-centered support and resources to BU students, staff, and faculty.

As the primary point of contact for those impacted by sexual or gender-based violence, the SVSC strives to integrate a non-judgmental and intersectional lens to all their services. The SVRAs provide support in English or French, ensuring an accessible, trans & queer positive environment. They also assist survivors in exploring their needs, offering both short- and long-term accommodations, regardless of when the incident occurred.

In addition to direct support, the SVSC plays an active role in education and advocacy. The SVRAs coordinate community training sessions and communication initiatives in line with Bishop’s University’s Policy for the Prevention of Sexual Violence, fostering awareness and promoting safer campus practices.

The Centre also offers tailored support to 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals who may have experienced gender-based violence, advocating for their safety and inclusion within university procedures and initiatives.

The relocation of the SVSC stems from a recommendation from the Canadian Centre for Legal Innovation in Sexual Assault Response (CCLISAR) to create a Sexual Violence Centre External to Health/Counselling Services. Presented in June 2022, the CCLISAR Independent Review of Bishop’s University provided a series of recommendations to improve services to those impacted by sexual or gender-based violence.

Bishop’s University is deeply committed to providing a safer learning environment free from sexual and gender-based violence.  If you have experienced a sexual assault or other types of sexual or gender-based violence, we are here for you.

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MEDIA INQUIRIES:

Sonia Patenaude

Communications Manager – Bishop’s University 819-342-2587 | sonia.patenaude@ubishops.ca