Prevention Services
Mission
Through active community engagement, the Office of Prevention Services works to enhance campus safety by implementing evidence-based prevention strategies that are trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and designed to address and prevent behaviors that threaten the well-being of the campus community.
What we do
The Office of Prevention Services at Delaware State University takes a proactive role in leading educational, preventive, and safety-focused initiatives across campus. The office remains responsive to emerging issues and addresses them through comprehensive strategies that prioritize campus safety. This includes concerns related to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, collectively referred to as interpersonal violence. Utilizing evidence-based, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive practices, the office delivers prevention programs in collaboration with community partners, while maintaining full compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. Through these efforts, the Office of Prevention Services promotes student well-being and fosters a campus culture grounded in accountability and respect.
- Evidence-Based Prevention - Programs grounded in research and best practices
- Trauma-Informed Care - Strategies that prioritize safety and empowerment
- Culturally Responsive - Programs honoring our HBCU community’s unique identity
- Community Partnerships - Coordinated efforts with campus and local organizations
Through these efforts, the Office of Prevention Services seeks to promote student well-being and cultivate a campus culture rooted in accountability and respect, while adhering to all relevant federal, state, and institutional regulations.
Our Vision
Office of Prevention Services envisions a campus community where every individual is empowered to take action, support survivors, and foster a culture rooted in accountability and respect. This vision is realized through the development of systems and programs that are culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and built for long-term sustainability.
- Active Bystanders - Students, faculty, and staff who recognize concerning situations and intervene safely to prevent harm
- Survivor Support - A community that believes survivors, provides resources, and creates pathways to healing and justice
- Accountability Culture - Systems that hold individuals responsible for harmful behavior while promoting growth and education
- Mutual Respect - An environment where differences are celebrated and everyone treats others with dignity and care
Understanding Interpersonal Violence
What Is Interpersonal Violence?
Interpersonal violence encompasses behaviors that harm or threaten harm between individuals in various relationship contexts. On college campuses, this includes:
- Domestic Violence: Abuse between partners in intimate relationships
- Dating Violence: Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse in dating relationships
- Sexual Assault: Any non-consensual sexual contact or behavior
- Stalking: Repeated unwanted attention causing fear or concern for safety
Why Prevention Matters
At Delaware State University, we believe prevention is the most powerful tool for creating lasting change. By addressing root causes, shifting harmful attitudes, and empowering community members to intervene, we can:
- Reduce incidents of violence before they occur
- Create a supportive environment for survivors
- Build a culture where everyone takes responsibility
- Ensure every Hornet feels safe and valued
Get Involved & Stay Connected
The Office of Prevention Services is here for every member of the DSU community. Whether you need support, want to get involved in prevention efforts, or have questions about our programs, we’re ready to connect with you.
- Become a Peer Educator - Lead prevention workshops and serve as a resource for fellow students
- Attend Our Events - Join awareness campaigns, workshops, and community-building activities throughout the year
- Partner With Us - Student organizations, departments, and community groups can collaborate on initiatives