Title IX | Samford University

Samford University is committed to preventing and ending all forms of abuse and violence on campus, supporting victims of abuse and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. In this site you will find information on sexual assault, relationship violence, stalking, sexual harassment, as well as how to get help if you have experienced these issues and how to give support to a friend or colleague.

Purpose

The purpose of this site is to provide information that enables individuals to be a part of the solution in combating violence against persons and to provide resources for individuals who were/are a victim of violence.

The Title IX Coordinator coordinates efforts to eliminate acts of violence on campus. The Title IX, Public Safety, Samford Counseling Services and Human Resources offices develop and contribute to a wide range of programs and events designed to increase awareness about violence against persons. Programs are designed to promote healthy relationships and to provide education about behaviors that enable relationship violence. Programs offered by these offices include, but are not limited to: sexual misconduct and sexual assault, healthy relationships, self defense and personal safety, and understanding sexual consent. The programs are structured to meet the needs of specific audiences and can be presented upon request. Presentations are intended to encourage audience participation and critical thinking about behaviors associated with relationship violence, as well as providing education about prevention and personal safety.

If you want to talk to someone in person weekdays before 5 p.m., you may call Samford Counseling Services at 205-726-2065. If you need help or support after 5 p.m. during the week or on the weekend, you may call the Birmingham Crisis Center 24-hour crisis line at 205-323-7777.

Common Myths About Sexual Assault

Most rapists are strangers

Research statistics suggests more than 75% of victims of sexual assaults know their assailant.

If victims do not fight back, they were not raped

A number of circumstances could result in a victim not fighting back during an assault. In some instances, the assailant may use a drug or the element of fear to prevent the victim from using physical force against the assailant. The simple truth is that intentional sexual contact without consent of the other person constitutes sexual assault, regardless of whether the victim fights back or not.

Rape requires the use of a weapon

According to the United States Department of Justice, 80% of rapes and sexual assault incidents do not involve a weapon.

Men cannot be raped

According to national rape statistics, one out of 33 men will be a victim of rape or sexual assault in their lifetime.

Perpetrators of rape are arrested and jailed after the assault

Research data suggest less than 40% of rapes and sexual assaults are reported.

You were sexually assaulted because you were drinking

Alcohol is a weapon that some perpetrators use to control their victims and render them helpless. As part of their plan, an assailant may encourage a potential victim to use alcohol, or they may identify a person who is already drunk to victimize. Alcohol is not a cause of rape; it is only one of many tools that perpetrators of rape use to control their victims.

When a partner says no, they really mean yes

When a person says yes to sex, they are giving consent. Silence does not mean consent, nor does a victim giving in to sex after being subjected to consistent begging or pleading mean consent. Unrelenting pleading or begging for sex is consistent with coercion. If your partner says no or seems unsure, respect that person and their wishes.