BY LORI KLEIN
Title IX Coordinator
For the UAS Whalesong

Let’s say you’re concerned about a friend. Maybe he’s in an unhealthy dating relationship that seems to be turning violent. Maybe you worry that she’s been sexually assaulted. You watch your friend withdraw socially, and you see them struggle academically. You want to help…above and beyond just being a reliable listening ear. And yet, you’re mindful of your friend’s confidentiality. What can you do?

Start with a confidential resource – a person who, under law and university policy, can keep what they hear confidential. UAS Counselors Becky Iverson and Margie Thomson are confidential resources. UAS Health Clinic Physician Assistant Amanda Arra is a confidential resource. And starting on November 14, AWARE (Aiding Women in Abuse and Rape Emergencies) will provide an advocate on campus every Monday afternoon. UAS welcomes Swarupa Toth, Legal Advocate and other trained advocates to campus.

Confidential resources can listen to the circumstances of a situation, not be bound to report that to anyone, and give options. Often times we don’t know what to do because we don’t know what options are available to us. Confidential resources can provide that guidance without judgment and with no pressure for decision-making.

Hotlines serve as great resources as well, especially because they are available 24/7. However, our Counselors and AWARE Advocates are specifically trained in what options you have available to you at UAS and in Juneau.

Contacts for Confidential Resources:
UAS Counselor Becky Iverson: baiverson@alaska.edu / 796-6514
UAS Counselor Margie Thomson: mwthomson@alaska.edu / 796-6465
UAS Physician Assistant Amanda Arra: ajarra@alaska.edu / 796-6260
AWARE Advocate: Monday afternoons – JPD Substation near Spikes (watch for signs)
AWARE Juneau Crisis Line (24/7): 586-1090
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673