Overview of Medical and Forensic Examinations

The Belles Against Violence Office (BAVO) at Saint Mary’s College, a women’s college, invites the public to a talk intended to educate and empower young people on the subject of sexual violence. Francine Henley, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Coordinator at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, will offer a presentation titled “An Overview of Medical and Forensic Examinations” on Tuesday, February 19 at 6 p.m. in Vander Vennet Theatre. (Click for a campus map.)

Henley will discuss procedures that take place when a sexual assault victim arrives at the hospital. They will show the kit that is used for evidence collection and walk through the process as well as discuss issues like the cost (free), the time frame in which evidence should be collected, etc.

The presentation is an example of Saint Mary’s College’s commitment to reduce the incidence and impact of violence and abuse of women. “Educational and prevention programming remains a core component to comprehensively address these issues,” said Connie Adams, director of BAVO.

BAVO offers a variety of programming opportunities for Saint Mary’s students throughout the academic year, many of which are open to the public. College-aged women and high school seniors getting ready to attend college may benefit from this talk. For information, contact Connie Adams by email or (574) 284-4081.

National statistics indicate that college-aged women are four times more likely to be sexually assaulted; one out of every six women will be sexually assaulted during their lifetime; and 60 percent of sexual assaults go unreported. Victims of sexual assault are three times more likely to suffer from depression; 13 times more likely to abuse alcohol; and 26 times more likely to abuse drugs. (Sources: Rape, Abuse & Incest Network, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey: 2010 Summary Report)

Back to Stories