Sexual Assault Violence Prevention

Daemen College takes the health and wellness of our students very seriously. To that end, and in compliance with Clery, Title IX, the Campus SaVE Act Initiatives, as well as NY State Education Law 129-B, Student Affairs maintains regular efforts to examine Daemen’s policies, protocol and programming as it relates to reducing sexual assault, dating abuse, and stalking, as well as substance abuse education. The Student Wellness Advocacy Group (SWAG) Task Force meets monthly to continue addressing these important issues, while striving to create an environment that is accepting, non-hostile, and conducive to life, learning, and a free exchange of ideas.

The SWAG Committee is comprised of the following staff members and areas:

  • Dr. Greg Nayor, Vice President for Student Affairs (Ex-officio)
  • Steph Albano, Head Women's Volleyball Coach and Senior Women's Administrator
  • Annie Mandart, Administrative Associate for the Title IX Coordinator
  • Robert Mead-Colegrove, Assistant Dean for Campus Life 
  • Bethany Frei, Graduate Student Intern for Wellness Education
  • Kim Pagano, Director of Orientation and Leadership Development
  • Chris Malik, Director of Student Activities
  • Shannon Schmitt, Director of Counseling
  • Meg Altman-Cosgrove, Assistant Director, Residence Life
  • Sara Cherry, Campus Advocate, Crisis Services of Buffalo
  • Dr. Denise Emer, Associate Professor, Psychological Sciences
  • Dr. Diane Bessel, Assistant Professor, Social Work and Sociology

Through SWAG’s efforts, the College has put in place many important measures, including:

  • A conduct review process that is fair, consistent, and expedient for both the complainant and respondent. The policies and procedures not only comply with the policies outlined by the federal and state governments, but also with the best practices in the profession.  Daemen College prides itself on balancing compassion with adjudication and education.  Students can review the conduct review process in the Student Handbook.
  • As part of that conduct review process, the College has created a simple handout to provide to students who may have experienced a sexual assault or harassment which outlines their rights as well as FAQs on what to expect in coming forward. 
  • Require completion of Think About It, www.campusclarity.com, a web-based educational orientation, for all incoming students (including transfers and graduate programs) during the summer and early part of the fall term each year.  This program addresses alcohol, drug, and sexual assault violence prevention.
  • Bystander Intervention Training for all student leaders before classes begin each year. This training includes: Athletes, Greek Leaders, Student Ambassadors, Resident Assistants, Tour Guides, Peer Mentors, and Orientation Leaders. Designed by Crisis Services of Buffalo, this 90-minute class teaches student leaders what to look out for and how to address and prevent something from happening. 
  • Education for Faculty and Staff, including Campus Security Authorities under the Clery Act and Responsible Persons under Title IX on how to report a crime. One part of that training for CSAs and Responsible Persons is an annual online presentation.
  • Regular education and programming including: Red Flag Campaign, “One Night Performance”, Passive Programming Campaigns, and more.

The College’s efforts do not operate in a vacuum – it partners with the Campus Care Team, Campus Safety, Title IX Coordinator, Dr. Kathleen Boone, kboone@daemen.edu, and student groups.

Additionally, the College has spearheaded a “Do Something” campaign to continue raising awareness on the important issue. 

The Student Handbook is the College's official policy and procedure statement of your rights and responsibilities as a Daemen College student. You are encouraged to familiarize yourself with the contents of the handbook and to refer to it as needed for detailed statements of policy and procedure.