Union County Review

A new initiative by the Kean Counseling Center (KCC) aims to create a campus-based network for survivors of sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. This program is backed by a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).

The initiative, known as the Survivors Empowerment and Education Network (SEEN), will serve as a model for other universities addressing domestic violence issues. The four-year DOJ grant will fund a program director who is a licensed counselor. This director will collaborate with the KCC team to develop services, education, training, and advocacy in partnership with community organizations serving survivors.

Patricia Aponte, Kean’s clinical director of student health services, stated: “We are creating a network that helps the whole community and works to support survivors and prevent violence. This is a solid foundation that will endure long beyond our time and help future generations.”

The network intends to take a culturally informed approach to serve Kean's diverse population, including many first-generation students. John Grady, Ph.D., director of the KCC said: “Culture has incredible influence. We are there to help people find their own answers. We can’t impose our own belief systems on people. We can provide education and resources.”

The Survivors Network aims to enhance prevention and education programs for faculty, staff, and students while providing specialized training for personnel to respond effectively to incidents.

Kean plans to build on existing relationships with internal and external community partners while expanding new partnerships on campus and beyond. Genique Stanislaus, DNP, executive director of the Kean Wellness Center said: “We welcome anyone who wants to be an ally to work with us. The network we build will have a lasting and sustainable impact on the well-being of this population, and we welcome all who want to join.”