Frequently Asked Questions

I’m struggling with my academics. Who can help me?

Everyone reacts to interpersonal violence differently. Some common reactions include decreased work or school performance, increased absenteeism , dropped courses, changed academic plans, or a need to leave school.  The Dean of Students office can discuss options with you if your academics are suffering as a result of interpersonal violence. Contact the Office of the Dean of Students at 966-4042 or the Academic Advising at 966-5116.

I’m lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, or queer and I’ve experienced interpersonal violence. What services are available for me? Will I be treated fairly?

All UNC student services are available to IPV survivors of any sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression. The LGBTQ Center provides ongoing training and consultation to the Dean of Students Office, Department of Public Safety, Counseling & Psychological Services, and Campus Health Services. Additionally, Terri Phoenix (Director of LGBTQ Center) is available to assist those who have experienced IPV as they navigate medical, legal, and university reporting processes and services. While North Carolina does not legally recognize same sex partnerships, there are civil and legal processes available regardless of the sexual orientation or gender identity of you or the person who hurt you.

I’m a male survivor of interpersonal violence. What resources are available to me?

Interpersonal violence, including stalking, abusive relationships, and sexual assault affect people of all gender identities and gender expressions. Please know that although the Campus Health Services forensic nurse examiners are located in Women’s Health Services, they are available to all students regardless of gender identity or gender expression. You will be believed and will receive equal treatment. Additionally, male survivors who identify as LGBTQ may chose to work with Terri Phoenix (Director of LGBTQ Center) for assistance with navigating medical, legal, and university reporting processes and services.

I was drunk or high when I was assaulted. If I report to the Police or the University, am I going to get in trouble for my drug or alcohol use?

We strongly encourage you to report a crime of interpersonal violence. Our primary concern is the crime that happened to you and making sure that you are okay.

Why should I call the Orange County Rape Crisis Center’s or Compass Center for Women and Families’ (formerly the Family Violence Prevention Center) hotlines?

UNC does not currently have a 24 hour hotline for interpersonal violence, so we encourage students to call Orange County Rape Crisis Center (OCRCC) or Compass Center for Women and Families (formerly the Family Violence Prevention Center)’s hotlines after business hours.  Some students contact these resources because they feel more comfortable keeping issues of interpersonal violence separate from their student experience; if you have these concerns, please know that your health records at Campus Health, Counseling & Wellness, or the Emergency Department of UNC Hospitals are kept confidential under HIPPA and your educational records with the University are kept private under FERPA.

Who is the Deputy Title IX Officer and how can he help me if I’ve experienced violence?

The Deputy Title IX Coordinator is the primary contact for UNC-Chapel Hill students that wish to explore or file reports of sexual harassment, violence or discrimination. Ew Quimbaya-Winship works with students who experience sexual assault to coordinate protective measures and other timely services, provide information about available resources and explain the complaint process. He can also provide resources and discuss options with students accused of sexual assault. He is located in Suite 1125, Student and Academic Services Buildings North and can be reached at 919-843-3878.

If I report interpersonal violence to the University, will it end up on my records?

Health records at the Emergency Department of UNC Hospitals are kept confidential under HIPPA and your educational records with the University (including reports made to the Dean of Students, Counseling and Psychological Services and/or Campus Health Services) are kept private under FERPA. Read more about FERPA and student privacy rights.

Why are there different kinds of reporting?

There are three different kinds of reporting, including blind, anonymous, and full available at UNC because it allows the survivor to share what information he/she/ze wants to share, depending on level of comfort as well as whether you want to press charges, judicially or criminally.

Will my parents be notified?

It is university policy to only notify parents if there is imminent risk of harm to a student. We firmly believe that informing your parents should be your decision.  If you are on your parent’s health insurance, keep in mind that any charges incurred will show up on their account. If you need financial assistance to avoid this situation, the Victim’s Assistance Fund is available to help cover medical costs.

I’m working on a paper, project, program, or news article about interpersonal violence. How can I get more information about this topic?

In addition to this website, email ipv@unc.edu or check out Wellness’s page or Campus Health Service’s on healthy relationships