Honors College Pulse Session to Discuss Sexual Assault

Whit Pruitt, University Relations

Honors Pulse provides a forum for student-led discussions on timely issues.

Honors students Richard Tiffany and Carter Buckner will present the latest Honors College Pulse discussion, titled "Break the Silence – Let's Talk About Sexual Assault," at 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 29, in the upstairs honors study lounge in Gearhart Hall. The Honors College Pulse Series is a student-led effort to foster dialogue on pressing subjects in our communities. All students, members of the community, faculty and staff are welcome to participate. 

This week's Honors College Pulse Series will feature a panel discussion about sexual assault. Studies show that more than one-quarter of undergraduate women at the University of Arkansas will have experienced sexual assault by the time they graduate. The percentage is higher in the LGBTQ community, with almost half experiencing some form of assault in their lifetime. A wide range of topics will be covered, including restorative justice, victimization, and how to create strong support networks — all in an effort to improve how we address this issue. 

Honors student moderator Carter Buckner had this to say of the program and its importance: "This is an opportunity to share your perspectives on dealing with sexual assault, its aftermath and hear from others. If you are a survivor of sexual assault, want to be an ally, or just want to learn more, please join us."

On the Panel:

• Tyler Farrar – Title IX coordinator for the University of Arkansas
• Anne Shelley – executive director NWA Center for Sexual Assault
• Dr. Valandra – assistant professor in the School of Social Work and director of African and African American Studies Program
• Mary Wyandt-Hiebert – director of STAR Central, adviser for Respect
• Carter Buckner – student moderator

Following the panel there will be food and informal discussion. Please email hcevents@uark.edu with any questions, and RSVP (not required) here: honorscollege.formstack.com/forms/pulse_sexual_assault.