By Viviana Sanchez, Skyline Copy Chief

ALPINE, TX – Safety is an important first priority on any campus and Sul Ross State University is no exception. In an interview at the end of the Spring 2021 semester, The director of Title IX and Human Resources, Karlin DeVoll, spoke about the safety of the Sul Ross campus.

DeVoll explained what Sul Ross has done to make sure that students feel safe on and off campus, “The university has received fewer than 10 reports of sexual assault or sexual abuse in a given year. While that number is low, we take all reports seriously and investigate matters when necessary.”

DeVoll said that Sul Ross adheres to Texas House Bill 1735, which requires all institutions to establish sexual misconduct policies and makes sure that all full-time staff and faculty are educated on these requirements.

Each semester, groups such as sport teams, coaches, and freshman in the Freshman Seminar classes have sexual misconduct training. “The Title IX staff provide resources and training by request as well,” said DeVoll.

For students or anyone who may feel unsafe on campus DeVoll pointed out the “Blue Light Stations,” which are located in high traffic areas near the Zuzu Verk Amphitheatre. They provide immediate contact with law enforcement with the press of button.

DeVoll also mentioned a solution for students who do not feel safe walking alone. “The University Police Department offers free escort services for individuals who do not feel safe walking on campus after dark,” DeVoll said.

Human Resources has plenty of resources for individuals who feel unsafe. “We have several offices that respond to emergencies or offer services related to safety,” DeVoll said.

SRSU UPD for Emergencies 911, 432.837.8100; Briscoe Administration Building Room 100. The University also works with the Title IX staff to report incidents and provide outreach to students, faculty, or staff who need assistance.

Title IX Coordinator: Karlin DeVoll 432.837.8652; Briscoe Administration Building Room 110

If you have been a victim of sexual abuse or assault, DeVoll has provided help lines to those in need.

Confidential Resources are:

Counseling and Accessibility Services 432.837.8203; Ferguson Hall Room 112

Student Health Services 432.837.8102; Morgan University Center Room 211

Alpine Community Resources are:

Family Crisis Center of Alpine 432.837.7254 or 1.800.834.0654; 606 North 5th Street

Alpine Police Department 911 for Emergencies, 432.837.3486; 309 W. Sul Ross

Brewster County Sheriff’s Office 911 for Emergencies, 432.837.3488; 201 W. Avenue E

Big Bend Regional Medical Center 432.837.3447; 2600 N. Hwy 118

State and National Resources are:

Texas Association Against Sexual Assault (TAASA) 512-474-7190; 6200 La Calma Drive, Suite 110, Austin, Texas 78752

Texas Department of Public Safety Victim Services 512-424-2211; P.O. Box 4087, Austin, Texas 78773

National Sexual Assault Hotline 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233

Sul Ross wants to provide an environment where everyone feels safe and welcome and the Human Resources department wants to ensure that every student is aware of these resources.