A training program that focuses on prevention and response is the next step in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s pursuit of a community free of sexual misconduct in all forms.

Launching March 1, the mandatory Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Response training is aligned with recommendations made in a comprehensive review released in December by the Chancellor’s Collaborative on Sexual Misconduct. It includes specific modules for students (at both undergraduate and graduate/professional levels) and faculty and staff. The training also meets federal guidelines, including those within Title IX, Violence Against Women Act, and Clery Act.

“It is important for us to comply with federal regulations, but it is even more important that our university contributes to ongoing efforts to keep one another safe,” said Jake Johnson, associate to the chancellor for institutional equity and compliance. “This training will help improve understanding of what the policies are and knowing what to do if someone talks to you about sexual misconduct.

“It will help our campus community develop skills and create an awareness that will lead to a safer campus for all.”

The training modules were developed by Catharsis Productions, a Chicago-based training and education organization whose staff includes individuals who have worked in violence prevention education and have served as victim advocates.

Sensitive topics within the modules are dealt with in a frank and engaging manner. Additional options are available for any member of the university community who has been personally impacted by sexual misconduct and is concerned about taking the training. The module titles and topic areas include:

U Got This! — An introduction or review for undergraduate students that features three modules. This training covers multiple topics, including how culture can influence sex and relationships; consent; stalking; and campus resources. This training takes about one hour to complete.

U Got This! 2 — Provides graduate and professional students information useful in their roles as students as well as in the context of assistantships. Topics include prevention strategies and response options. This training takes approximately 40 minutes.

Report = Support — Following university policy, this training is required annually for all faculty and staff. Employees who are also officials with authority (under Title IX) and campus security authorities (per Cleary Act) are required by law to complete this annual training. This training takes approximately 40 minutes.

All members of the university community will receive an email from “University of Nebraska System Learning (Bridge)” to complete the training. The email will prompt students, faculty and staff to login using a TrueYou username and password. Individuals can also enroll directly.

The email invitation is expected by March 1 and individuals have 30 days to complete the training. Email reminders about completing the training will be sent. Faculty and staff who do not complete the training will have to account for incompletions with supervisors, and students may be restricted or delayed in registering for future courses.

“This is important training that will help all members of our campus community better recognize, respond and report issues related to sexual misconduct,” said Meagan Counley, the university’s Title IX coordinator. “Completing it is an important step as we move forward with our commitment to supporting and advancing education and intervention related to issues of sexual misconduct.”

For more information or to voice concerns, contact the Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance at equity2@unl.edu or 402-472-3417.

The university offers a number of resources and support options related to issues of sexual misconduct. Learn more here.