Montclair Receives Department of Justice Grant to Expand Sexual Violence Education

Montclair State University’s Division of Student Development and Campus Life (SDCL) has received $499,998 in funding from the United States Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women to expand critical domestic violence, sexual assault, harassment education and outreach for underserved populations.

Montclair is one of only 19 institutions in the country to receive funding that will be utilized to increase and strengthen culturally specific programming.

Over the course of four years, Montclair will utilize the funding to enhance campus communication, expand training, and provide specialized education for students. The efforts will be led by Yolanda Alvarez, Associate Dean for the Office of the Dean of Students and Adela Caceres, Director of the Office for Social Justice and Diversity.

“By incorporating culturally specific strategies, we ensure that responses to sexual violence are not only compassionate yet relevant to the diverse identities and experiences of those affected,” says Caceres. “This approach promotes prevention education while providing the necessary support for individuals to heal and thrive.”

Montclair’s Commitment to Wellness

Dedicated to creating a holistic experience that builds skills in self-advocacy, social responsibility, belonging and personal wellness, Montclair and SDCL provide extensive resources and educational opportunities for students, faculty and staff to help ensure a safe and inclusive campus environment.

Comprehensive resources for community members include:

Campus Resources

• Confidential Resources (for students)
• Counseling and Psychological Services (for students)
• Title IX and Sexual Violence Resources (for students and employees)
• CONCERN Behavioral and Management Solutions (for University employees)

Community Resources

• Essex County SAVE Center
• Passaic County Women’s Center

“We are deeply honored to receive this transformative grant from the Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women,” says Dawn Meza Soufleris, Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life. “This funding will allow us to expand vital education and outreach efforts, particularly for underserved populations, ensuring that every member of our Montclair State University community feels supported and safe.

“Being one of only 19 institutions nationwide to receive this funding underscores our commitment to fostering a campus environment that prioritizes prevention, empowerment, and culturally responsive care.”

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