Norfolk State University's OVW (Office on Violence Against Women) Campus Prevention & Response Program and CIVPER (Campus Interpersonal Violence Prevention Education & Response Program), proudly presents "What is conSCENT," a workshop aimed at promoting  consent awareness among students. The event is scheduled to coincide with Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), fostering a safe campus community and empowering students with essential knowledge and resources.

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Led by Project Director/Program Manager, Dr. Tonya M. Shell, the workshop seeks to engage students in therapeutic sessions centered around conversations about consent awareness while crafting their favorite essential oil scents. Incorporating essential oils into daily routines can offer a natural and integrated approach to wellness, promoting physical, emotional, and mental health; however, it is essential to use them mindfully and responsibly to reap their full benefits while minimizing risks. Participants will engage in meaningful dialogue surrounding the importance of consent, understanding its various forms, and how it relates to interpersonal relationships.

Defined as the voluntary, enthusiastic, and mutual agreement to engage in specific physical activity, consent is a fundamental aspect of healthy relationships. During the workshop, students will explore various kinds of consent, including verbal, non-verbal, enthusiastic, and ongoing consent, learning how each plays a crucial role in fostering respectful interactions. The event will also highlight national resources available for victims of interpersonal violence.

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"Consent is a fundamental aspect of healthy relationships and interactions," says Dr. Tonya M. Shell. "Through this workshop, we aim to provide students with a deeper understanding of consent and equip them with the necessary tools to navigate interpersonal relationships safely and respectfully."

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Students attending the "What is conSCENT" workshop will have access to a wealth of national resources dedicated to sexual assault awareness and interpersonal violence prevention, including:

National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

Counseling resources on campus and in the community are available.

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For more information about the "What is conSCENT" workshop and other initiatives by Norfolk State University's CIVPER program, please contact:

Dr. Tonya M. Shell
Project Director/Program Manager, CIVPER-Campus Interpersonal Violence Prevention Education & Response Program and OVW Campus Prevention & Response Program
Norfolk State University
Phone: (757) 823-8603

Email: tmshell@nsu.edu

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About OVW Campus Prevention & Response Program:

The OVW Campus Prevention & Response Program provides funding, training, and technical assistance to institutions of higher education to develop comprehensive prevention and response strategies addressing sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking on campus.

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About CIVPER (Campus Interpersonal Violence Prevention Education & Response):

The Campus Interpersonal Violence Prevention Education & Response (CIVPER) program at Norfolk State University is dedicated to promoting awareness, prevention, and response to interpersonal violence, including sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking and human trafficking prevention within the campus community.

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About Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM):

Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) is an annual campaign in April aimed at raising public awareness about sexual assault and educating communities on how to prevent it. SAAM seeks to foster understanding, empathy, and support for survivors while promoting a culture of consent, respect, and accountability.