Sexual Harassment & Assault Response
Sexual Harassment & Assault Support Resources
If you have been sexually harassed or sexually assaulted, you have access to the same support and resources you would if you were in Blacksburg, but how you engage with them may be different. We encourage you to contact your in-country support network (program director, faculty-leader, international studies office), as they are physically there with you and can advise you on next steps specific to that country.
Virginia Tech’s resources and support are also available to you. We encourage you to connect with any office that you are comfortable with. In consideration of the additional complexity of seeking assistance while abroad, the following describes which VT resources can assist you most directly with different needs.
First and foremost, ensure you are in a space you are physically safe. If needed, seek medical treatment immediately.
Medical – Physical Health
If you have any critical injuries, go to the nearest emergency medical facility immediately.
AXA Assistance (CISI)
+001 (312) 935-1703
medassist-usa@axa-assistance.us
VT’s contracted security support provider that can assist with finding the closest medical facility, navigating your insurance coverage with CISI, emergency translation services, and developing a plan for next steps.
Mental Health
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, particularly following a traumatic event.
AXA Assitance (CISI)
001 312 935 1703
medassist-usa@axa-assistance.us
VT’s contracted security support provider that can assist with a crisis assessment, finding and booking an appointment with a local mental health provider that speaks English, navigating your insurance coverage with CISI, emergency translation services, and developing a plan for next steps.
Cook Crisis Team
001 540 231 6557
The crisis response team with VT’s Cook Counseling Center. Call at any time for assistance with a crisis assessment, identifying the best resources for your next steps, and a plan for what to do next. If your call is disconnected, please call them back as soon as possible.
Police
Different countries have different standards for what is illegal and what support law enforcement officials can provide. If you decide to report to local authorities, you also have the option of support from VT throughout that process.
AXA Assitance (CISI)
001 312 935 1703
medassist-usa@axa-assistance.us
VT’s contracted security support provider that can assist with a crisis assessment, finding and booking an appointment with a local mental health provider that speaks English, navigating your insurance coverage with CISI, emergency translation services, and developing a plan for next steps.
Global Safety 24-hour Support
001 540 750 5747
Call a representative of the Global Education Office at any time for assistance with navigating any emergency situation and developing a plan for your next steps.
General Support - Figuring Out What is Needed
It is normal to not know what support you want or what to do next. Any of the following resources can assist you in developing a plan for your next steps and connecting with the right resources for that plan.
AXA Assitance (CISI)
001 312 935 1703
medassist-usa@axa-assistance.us
VT’s contracted security support provider that can assist with a crisis assessment, finding and booking an appointment with a local mental health provider that speaks English, navigating your insurance coverage with CISI, emergency translation services, and developing a plan for next steps.
Dean of Students Office
001 540 231 3787
dean.students@vt.edu
Here to help create a plan, connect to resources, and gain the confidence to get back on track.
Global Safety 24-hour Support
001 540 750 5747
Call a representative of the Global Education Office at any time for assistance with navigating any emergency situation and developing a plan for your next steps.
Cook Connect
001 540 231 6557
VT Cook Counseling Center’s team of clinicians that specializes in collaboratively developing a plan for support. If your call is disconnected, please call them back as soon as possible.
VT Title IX Coordinator
001 540 231 1824
polidoro@vt.edu
You can file a formal title IX complaint or reach out for guidance on options for next steps. If you choose to file a formal Title IX complaint, an investigation will be conducted. Direct contact is available during business hours only.
CARES Program for Survivors of Violence
001 540 231 7806
CARESupport@vt.edu
Housed within the Women's Center at Virignia Tech, the CARES (Campus, Advocacy, Resources, and Education) Program for Survivors of violence offers advocacy and support services to students, faculty, and staff who have been impacted by experiences such as sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking/harassment and many other forms of violence.
Incidents Abroad
Global Safety & Risk Management is here to assist in the event of an emergency while you are traveling.