The yearly Campus Security & Fire Safety Report provided an overview of reports of sexual offenses, theft, disciplinary referrals for drug abuse violations, stalking, burglaries and dating violence over time.
The annual report is released in accordance with the federal requirement under the Clery Act.
A Rearview data analysis showed four more sexual offense reports made in 2023 than the previous year.
In response, members from Fairfield University’s equity office say the growing numbers are part of their work, as it allows students to learn more about their rights and options moving forward and get connected to resources; both on campus and off, confidential and private.
The equity office also organizes awareness initiatives focused on safety training, education, and prevention on campus.
The office partners with groups such as the Center for Family Justice. They are heavily involved with first year experience (FYE) classes, led by new student leaders, who facilitate conversations surrounding consent, and bystander intervention. Officials also recently facilitated training at the Bellarmine campus location.
Equity Director Dylan Gordon says that while much of his work is primarily with victims of sexual assault, all students in need of support can reach out to the Title IX office.