TAMIU Launches Three New Programs Enhancing Student Experience, Safety

When students return to Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) this fall, they’ll set foot on a campus that’s expanded its dedication to the student experience with three new programs enhancing TAMIU’s learning environment and on-campus safety.

Associate vice president for Student Affairs Jerry Alva said the programs are part of the Division of Student Success’ ongoing commitment to making TAMIU a safe and rewarding place to learn, live and succeed.

“We’re launching three programs that will continue to make TAMIU a safe and rewarding place for our students to call home throughout their educational experience here.  Those three programs are Haven, Green Dot and the Safe Zone Project,” Alva said.

Haven – Understanding Sexual Assault, requires incoming students to complete online training providing preventative education regarding critical issues of sexual assault, relationship violence, stalking, Title IX and resources available.  The program contact is San Juanita Perez, associate director of Student Success Services.

Green Dot is a bystander intervention program to reduce power-based violence in the community. It offers a comprehensive approach to violence prevention and is directed by Mayra Hernandez, director, Office of Student Conduct and Community Engagement.

The third program, the Safe Zone project, is a creative workshop aimed at enhancing the

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer or Questioning (LGBTQ) community awareness and ally network on campus.   Safe Zone workshops are opportunities for educators, staff, community members and students to become more aware of issues facing the LGBTQ community. The program contact is Teresa Renn, outreach and retention specialist for the Office of Student Conduct and Community Engagement.

Alva said his office considers the addition of the programs a strong reflection of the TAMIU student experience.

“We’re constantly striving to go the extra mile for our students and these programs are clearly a strong part of that commitment.  TAMIU is a special place and we aim to keep it that way,” he concluded.

For information on Haven, contact Perez at 956.326.2948.

For more on Green Dot, contact Hernandez at 326.2288.

To learn more about the Safe Zone Project, contact Renn at 326.2281.

Fall classes at TAMIU begin Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2014.

University office hours are from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday- Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu