Discussion List for campus-based and allied personnel working to end gender-based violence on campus.

["Kaplan, Claire Naomi (cnk2r)" <>]

Dear Erin,

We have had the same struggle.  I recently changed my program’s name, after some conversation with others.  It was hard to get away from the “violence” piece, I think in part because what I do is impacted by what others are doing at the University.  So, for example, if I were in Health Promotion, it would make sense to focus on healthy relationships, which they do.  But if I use that term in particular, it would be seen as moving in on an area that is handled by other people.  Also now, we have a Prevention Coordinator who works in the Office of the Dean of Students.  We’re under the Provost.  All of these issues play out in higher education, in ways that most folks don’t even realize.  My job duties are changing somewhat, although the focus hasn’t changed at all. I actually preferred Gender Violence and Social Justice, but since another position at the Women’s Center has “Justice” in it, I was informed by the higher-ups that I couldn’t have that word in my program :(  So I have Social Change instead (which is positive at least).  I’m glad you raised this issue, as I’m sure many others are wrestling with it as well.  

best,

Claire

Claire Kaplan, Ph.D.

SAPC List Manager

Program Director, Gender Violence and Social Change

Maxine Platzer Lynn Women’s Center

University of Virginia

PO Box 800588

Charlottesville VA 22908-0588

434-982-2774 o | 434-982-2901 f

http://womenscenter.virginia.edu