» Public Safety

Sexual Assault Information

The philosophy of Gwynedd-Mercy College is to address related critical topics, in a variety of approaches, to reach as much of the campus community as possible. Through the Counseling Department, resources are utilized to provide education in sexual assault and relationship issues from within the college community as well as guest speakers and local agencies from Philadelphia and the surrounding communities. Educational programming and victim/survivor support services can be initiated by contacting the Student Services office, the Counseling offices, the Director of Human Resource, or Public Safety and Security. Please do not be afraid or reluctant to seek help.

If you are sexually assaulted or raped, it is important that you follow the steps as noted below:

• Get help immediately! Call Public Safety and Security at ext. 111, (215) 641-5522 or ext. 522, the Counseling offices, the Director of Human Resources, or the College Nurse.
• Get medical attention as soon as possible to deal with your physical condition and to collect evidence which may be used if you choose to take legal action.
• Attempt to preserve all physical evidence of the crime. This means you should not wash, douche or change clothing. If you must change put all your clothing into a paper bag. Preserve the scene of the crime as much as possible.
• Speak with a counselor who can maintain confidentiality, explain your options, and provide emotional support.

Contact any of the following departments/agencies to initiate assistance:

Public Safety and Security (215) 641-5522, ext. 522
Director of Public Safety & Security (215) 542-5785, ext. 785
Director of Counseling (215) 641-5571, ext. 571
Counselor (215) 646-7300, ext. 427
Director of Human Resources (215) 646-7300, ext. 250
College Nurse (215) 646-7300, ext. 486
Vice President for Student Services (215) 641-5566, ext. 566
Student Services (215) 641-5555, ext. 555
(215) 641-5546, ext. 546
Montgomery County Crime
Victim's Center (610) 277-5200
Lower Gwynedd Police (215) 646-5300
Emergency Number ext. 111

*Please note: You must first dial 9, on campus, to obtain an outside line.

All victims of campus crime are strongly encouraged to report all incidents to Public Safety and Security. If you are the victim of a sexual assault, immediately call Public Safety and Security. Student Services and the Human Resource office are also ready to assist you.
Your report will be treated with concern, sensitivity and confidentiality. Our major concern is to provide medical care and emotional support for the victim. Reporting a crime to Public Safety and Security does not mean you are required to prosecute the case, that is your personal decision. However, we strongly encourage all victims to report any and all crimes. This is the only way we can accurately know what crimes are occurring on campus, and how to direct our crime prevention efforts and resources.

If a victim of sexual assault requests anonymity, this request will be honored.