Student sexually assaulted in Stark Learning Center

A Wilkes student was sexually assaulted in the Stark Learning Center basement last week. The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. on April 11 in the women's rest room, room 6.

The female victim was not severely injured during the attack, (citation). She described the attacker as a white male of traditional college student age, with long fingernails and wearing blue jeans and a t-shirt. Vicki Mayk, associate director of marketing communications, said a suspect has not yet been identified, but the university hopes for a successful investigation.

"I think certainly there's always the hope and concern of following up with an investigation that it might be possible to track a suspect down, identify him," Mayk said.

Paul Adams, vice president of student affairs, said the police investigation depends on participation from the victim, as she was the only witness. He said this type of assault is not a frequent occurrence on campus.

"It is an extreme incident, and thankfully not something that happens with any regularity," Adams said.

The school is currently in the process at analyzing the event and determining what could have been done differently, such as preventive measures.

"I think the university, certainly with any incident like this, you're going to look at the episode and evaluate it and think about what might have been done or what could be done going forward," Adams said.

An immediate response was an increase in Public Safety patrols on campus, especially in SLC. Also, there has been some preliminary discussion about improving building access to SLC.

Adams said the victim indicated she had been in the location to pick up artwork from room 7. However, he added there was a class in that room, which may have prevented her from entering.

The university followed up by speaking with the victim on several occasions and providing her with supportive services. To avoid future incidents, Adams advises students to always travel using the buddy system, look out for fellow students and remain vigilant about their environment.