Monday, Nov 23, 2015
Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity creates sexual assault educational program
by Michelle Wood
Sigma Phi Epsilon, also known as SigEp, has taken brave and creative steps towards raising important awareness around the Rider community. Members of SigEp have formed S.A.V.E Week, which stands for Sexual Assault and Violence Education Week.
This year, SigEp successfully turned the week of October 19 into the first annual S.A.V.E Week to further educate students on sexual assault and domestic violence. This prevention program featured numerous events in hopes of raising awareness around the Rider community. Each day, members of SigEp sold wristbands and handed out information about how to avoid dangerous situations and what to do if a sexual assault or violence occurs.
鈥淲e formed this program as a result of the combination of the events that have taken place on our campus and nationwide,鈥 said Brandon Scalea, a sophomore brother of Rider鈥檚 SigEp. 鈥淲e thought this would be an excellent way to give back to our school and increase awareness on a serious issue.鈥
On the final day of S.A.V.E week, SigEp hosted an informational seminar with Susan Staley of Rider鈥檚 Substance Abuse Prevention Office. Throughout the week, SigEp has raised much awareness of sexual assault and violence throughout the campus environment. While educating the Rider community, all proceeds from the program went to the Joyful Heart Foundation, whose mission is to heal, educate and empower survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse, and to shed light into the darkness that surrounds these types of issues. From their efforts, SigEp raised $844 for a truly important cause.
鈥淲e feel that S.A.V,E. week was a success. It brought awareness to the Rider community and helped a good cause. We look forward to expanding and improving on this week in the future,鈥 says Darryl Alfonso, Vice President of SigEp.