York College Awarded Grant Aimed at Combating Sexual Violence

York College of Pennsylvania has been awarded a $6,400 grant through Pennsylvania’s 2024-25 It's On Us PA program to support efforts addressing sexual violence, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking prevention, education, and response. The grant, announced by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, will help York College advance its commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students.

The It's On Us PA campaign, endorsed by education leaders across the Commonwealth, emphasizes that sexual violence has no place in the educational experience of any student. The campaign empowers colleges and universities to take proactive steps in combating these issues and fostering campus communities that prioritize safety and respect.

"We are deeply honored to receive this grant and to be part of the collective effort to end sexual violence on college campuses," said Dr. Thomas Burns, President of York College. "This funding will help us to continue expanding our programs and services that raise awareness, support survivors, and give our community the tools they need to prevent violence. York College is committed to ensuring that every student feels safe, respected, and valued."

As part of the initiative, York College will use the grant funding to implement targeted programs and outreach efforts aimed at increasing awareness and educating students, faculty, and staff about preventing and responding to sexual violence, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. These efforts are integral to fostering a campus culture where all students can thrive without fear of harm.

"Through our partnership with the It's On Us PA program, we are reinforcing our dedication to student safety and well-being," Dr. Burns continued. "By working together with other institutions and state leaders, we hope to create a model for a safer, more inclusive campus environment that will inspire change across Pennsylvania."

Specifically, this grant will be used to continue violence prevention programs among various student groups who may be deemed higher risk. Outreach will focus on educating students on consent, healthy relationships, recognizing the signs of dating violence among peers, support programs, and much more.

For more information about York College's efforts to prevent and respond to sexual violence, please visit www.ycp.edu.

Established in 1787, York College of Pennsylvania is a private, four-year college located in the city of York, a hub of arts and industry between Baltimore and Philadelphia. Housed on 190 picturesque acres, the College is known for its focus on experiential learning and community engagement, serving over 3,500 undergraduate and graduate students in more than 70 baccalaureate majors, along with 30+ professional graduate degree and certificate programs. Deeply rooted in the liberal arts and recognized for excellence in its professional business, education, engineering, and nursing programs, York is ranked among the nation’s Best Value Schools by Niche. The College’s robust recreation and athletics program is among the best in the region and is home to 24 NCAA Division lll sports teams and 30+ intramural sports. A Princeton Review Best Northeastern College, York prides itself on its experienced, engaged faculty, its high-impact and student-centric philosophy, and its long-standing commitment to affordability and accessibility.