For Immediate Release
January 8, 2025
Cheyney University Awarded Grant to Strengthen Campus Safety
CHEYNEY, PA — Cheyney University is excited to announce it has been awarded funding through Governor Josh Shapiro’s It’s On Us PA Grant Program. As part of this year’s campaign, Cheyney University is proud to launch “CU- Consent Understood,” a program designed to promote awareness and education around consent and campus safety. This statewide initiative, which has invested over $1.6 million, focuses on preventing campus sexual assault and creating safer learning environments across Pennsylvania.
Cheyney’s share of this funding will allow the university to continue its work in raising awareness, providing support, and ensuring every student feels safe and valued on campus.
“This grant reinforces our commitment to creating a safe, welcoming environment for all members of the Cheyney family,” said Aaron A. Walton, President of Cheyney University. “We’re proud to be part of this important statewide effort and grateful for the resources to expand our programs and services.”
“Joining the “It’s On Us” Campaign and being the recipient of a 2024/2025 “It’s On Us” Grant will provide Cheyney University with the opportunity to develop partnerships that include students, faculty, staff, and local organizations. These partnerships, along with data and analysis practices, will allow Cheyney to continue targeting its Title IX programming efforts in ways that are pertinent to student needs regarding sexual harassment and sexual misconduct. We look forward to continuing to build on our efforts and addressing the negative effects of Title IX sexual harassment in order to enhance student success at Cheyney University.” As stated by Dr. Lakiyah Chambers, Director of Employee & Labor Relations, DEI, and Compliance and Interim Title IX Coordinator
Through the “CU- Consent Understood” campaign, the funding will help Cheyney:
- Provide Education: Expand training for students and staff on topics like consent and bystander intervention.
- Enhance Support: Strengthen resources for survivors and improve campus policies.
- Build Partnerships: Collaborate with local organizations to support prevention and awareness initiatives.
Cheyney University remains dedicated to fostering a community where everyone can grow, learn, and succeed without fear. This grant is another step in that direction, ensuring students are supported in every way possible.
We thank Governor Shapiro and the Pennsylvania Department of Education for their leadership in advancing this critical work.
About Cheyney University:
Founded in 1837, Cheyney University is America’s oldest historically Black college and university (HBCU). The university is dedicated to empowering students to achieve their full potential through innovative programs and a supportive campus environment. Learn more at www.cheyney.edu.
Contact Us:
610-339-2080 or sgauthney@cheyney.edy