Carissa Hansford
Manager, Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention (RSVP) Program
Welcome, Carissa
What is your role at Merced College?
The RSVP Program was established by a grant from the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), which is part of U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). My primary role is to oversee the daily operations of the grant. This means I coordinate programming to empower our students to understand and prevent sexual violence, ensure 24/7 confidential support is available to survivors, and ensure campus response to sexual violence accounts for survivor safety and well-being.
What part of your job do you enjoy most?
I fully believe in the importance of what I do, and every day I witness the positive impact of the RSVP Program on Merced College. We are truly creating a safer and more supportive campus. Seeing this unfold in real time is highly rewarding.
Tell us about yourself. What brought you to Merced College?
I worked in student services at three previous institutions, but when I arrived at Merced College I knew I’d found my forever home. Working with community college students is very fulfilling. I also enjoy the positive, supportive environment here.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I love to read, travel, and spend time with my husband and two children.
How can students and staff at Merced College contribute to creating a safer campus environment and preventing sexual violence?
We all have a role in creating a safer campus. Attend an RSVP Program workshop, or schedule one for your student group or class. Educate yourself on campus policy, and remember that there is an advocate on site. Hang a prevention poster in your office. Join the Coordinated Community Response Team. Students can also join the RSVP Program as Peer Educators.
In your view, what are the most significant challenges in addressing sexual violence in college settings, and how is Merced College working to overcome these challenges?
There are challenges to overcome in all aspects of addressing sexual violence, including cultural barriers, lack of resources, fear and misconceptions. Our Coordinated Community Response Team works hard to ensure our services are culturally competent and accessible, but there is always more work to be done.
What message do you have for survivors of sexual violence within the Merced College community during Sexual Assault Awareness Month?
You are not alone. Your voice matters, your story matters, and you matter.