GVSU program addresses dating violence, sexual assault

ALLENDALE, Mich. -- To create awareness about sexual assault and dating violence, a Grand Valley State University student organization will sponsor a program that focuses on healthy dating.

Popular author and lecturer Mike Domitrz returns to campus on Monday, October 20, with his humorous and informative program "Can I Kiss You?" that focuses on healthy dating behaviors. Domitrz presents the program to schools, colleges and parent organizations across the country.

"Can I Kiss You?" is a free event that is open to the public. It will begin at 8 p.m. in the Kirkhof Center, Grand River Room, on the Allendale Campus. The event is co-sponsored by Eyes Wide Open, a student organization, and Grand Valley's Women's Center.

Following the program, students and other participants are invited to "Take Back the Night" and join a march across campus in a unifying effort to end violence and sexual assault. The march will begin at 9 p.m. outside the Kirkhof Center.

Megan Sanderson, advisor for Eyes Wide Open, said the organization has increased its membership this academic year. Members attend a two-day training session to become peer educators about sexual assault and violence. Sanderson said Eyes Wide Open recently gave a presentation at Davenport University, where organizers are considering establishing a similar campus group there.

For more information about Take Back the Night events or Eyes Wide Open, contact Sanderson at [email protected] or (616) 331-1110.