One of the most valuable lessons I’ve taken from this course is how critical it is to go beyond just “knowing” Title IX and VAWA policies, and instead, learning how to apply them in real situations. Understanding the laws is one thing—but being prepared to respond when a student or colleague comes forward with a concern is what truly makes the difference in protecting our learning environment.

A strategy that has worked well for me is active listening combined with resource connection. When someone shares a concern, the natural instinct is to try to fix the problem immediately. However, I’ve found that taking the time to listen without judgment, acknowledging their experience, and then connecting them to the appropriate resources (Title IX Coordinator, counseling services, or supportive accommodations) builds trust and helps the individual feel supported.

One challenge I’ve encountered is overcoming the fear some people have about reporting—many worry about retaliation or that nothing will be done. In these moments, I’ve learned the importance of transparency. Explaining step by step what happens after a report, what confidentiality looks like, and what protections are in place can ease some of that fear and empower people to come forward.

The most rewarding outcome I’ve seen is a gradual cultural shift—when more people understand their role in preventing and addressing harassment or violence, the campus feels safer and more inclusive. Small actions, like staff members consistently modeling respect and taking reports seriously, can create big changes over time.

My takeaway is this: policies create the framework, but people create the culture. If each of us commits to awareness, compassion, and accountability, we can transform our institutions into places where every student and employee feels safe and supported.