About OVA

One does not need to identify with the word victim to use OVA services. OVA recognizes that the word victim can hold a stigma and some may not feel comfortable using or identifying with the word. Some people we work with identify with the word victim, some identify with the term survivor, and some do not identify with either. OVA will not label your experience and we will use the words that you feel most comfortable using to identify your experience.

The Office of Victim Assistance values diversity, equity, social justice, and inclusion. We support students, faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds. The OVA shall maintain and promote a policy of nondiscrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender, pregnancy, age, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, political affiliation/philosophy, or veteran status. We acknowledge that culturally relevant trauma services is an ongoing process of learning that begins by looking within ourselves and honoring basic human rights. As individuals and as an agency, we are committed to responding effectively to social-cultural diversity.