KINGS POINT, NY – Apr. 3, 2017 –Today marks the official start National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAM) at the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA).

During a lunchtime presentation, Rear Admiral Susan L. Dunlap, Deputy Superintendent, invited midshipmen, faculty and staff to participate in the many events that will take place during the month of April.  “Together, we can stop sexual violence before it has a chance to happen. It is possible to create a community where everyone is treated with respect and equality,” said Dunlap.

The Academy’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Program has partnered with departments across campus to provide a variety of events, presentations, and activities to recognize and acknowledge an Academy-wide effort to create a climate that does not tolerate sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sexist behavior. The theme for this year’s campaign is “One is One Too Many.”

After an introduction by RDML Dunlap, Midshipman Andrew Zdeb, Regimental Sexual Assault Victim Advocate, read the Presidential Proclamation.

SAAM is just one of the many activities managed by USMMA’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) Program. The Program provides prevention training, accountability of incidents, and a strong victim advocacy system.  It fosters an overall climate of confidence for victims to report incidents of sexual assault 24/7.  The SAPR Program is committed to its ultimate goal of preventing sexual assault from occurring.  This commitment includes timely support, through a caring victim advocacy program, that treats victims with the utmost dignity and respect.