Real Aggies have been committed to protecting and looking out for each other for over 140 years. When we come together to accomplish something, we give it our all and we become a force for positive change. This spirit of togetherness has certainly been reflected in the significant growth of Step In. Stand Up., our sexual assault awareness and prevention campaign. Since launching in Fall 2015, we have seen increased support and participation in Step In. Stand Up. from students, faculty and staff and I thank each of you for stepping in to prevent these acts before they happen, and standing up to support the survivors. Yet, even one incident on our campus is one too many. We must continue to do more.
Today, I call upon every student, faculty and staff member to join our cause – to step in and stand up against acts of sexual violence during Sexual Assault Awareness Month and the months and years that follow. Together, we can eliminate acts of sexual violence on our campus and influence other universities across the country and around the world to follow our example.
Take the first step toward our goal by signing the pledge at stepinstandup.tamu.edu to change the culture here at Texas A&M University. On the Step In. Stand Up. website, we also provide valuable information about our ongoing campaign including campus and community education and resources, and how to report acts of sexual violence.
I truly believe that we can put an end to these senseless acts of sexual violence on our campus with the same dedication and enthusiasm that sets us as part as Aggies. Please join me in taking this stand to make our world-class university a safer and more secure place for all.
