Advocate
An advocate is a person who has specialized training on sexual assault/sexual violence, domestic and dating violence and stalking. Advocates provide confidential, victim-centered assistance through their work at the university (e.g. legal advocates at the Campus Advocacy Network) or with a community organization (e.g. medical advocates at Rape Victim Advocates). The role of the advocate is to provide technical assistance and support through identifying and discussing all options available to victims and then helping them navigate those options. Options include the student conduct process, Title IX investigation, criminal and civil court processes, academic accommodations or other individualized options. Advocates can provide assistance in a single meeting or on an on-going, longer-term basis.