About VAWA

About the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

The USF VAWA Guide contains helpful information that explains the University’s responsibility under Title IX and the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).

USF's commitment to maintaining an inclusive campus environment that is free from harassment, discrimination, and violence is a cornerstone of USF's Principles of Community. As USF develops programs, policies, and procedures that foster our vision of a community that cherishes justice, accessibility, and meaningful participation by all of its members, the University aligns its efforts to comply with various federal laws designed to address and prevent violence within educational communities.

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is a federal law that enhances protections, prevention efforts, and institutional responses related to sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. Through amendments to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), VAWA requires colleges and universities to provide education, prevention programming, victim support resources, and equitable response procedures for individuals impacted by these forms of violence.

The University of South Florida does not tolerate sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking of any kind. The University is committed to providing supportive measures, resources, prevention education, and fair processes designed to promote safety, accountability, and equal access to educational and employment opportunities. These protections and response procedures are further outlined in the University’s applicable policies and procedures, including the University’s Sex Discrimination Policy 0-004.

To ensure compliance with VAWA, Title IX, the Clery Act, and other applicable federal and state laws, the University has designated Maggie Denney as the University's Title IX & VAWA Compliance Officer. She is responsible for overseeing the University’s compliance efforts related to sex-based discrimination and violence prevention, ensuring that reports of sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking are addressed appropriately by the University.

Any student, faculty, or staff member with questions or concerns about applicable University policies, prevention programs, supportive measures, or reporting options related to sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking is encouraged to contact the Title IX & VAWA Compliance Office.