OSU-Cascades moves to 24-hour safety coverage after week of violence
University officials responded to two assaults in housing and a nearby elementary school shooting by expanding security protocols and opening counseling services for students in Bend.
By Aiko Soto ·
Oregon State University's Cascades campus in Bend has moved to extend safety coverage to around the clock.
The change follows two reported sexual assaults in the university's only residential hall on Oct. 8 and Oct. 10. A shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School, located a few miles away, occurred within the same seven-day window. University officials stated that the victim of the assaults did not know the assailant. Investigations into both incidents are ongoing.
Charlie Woekel, president of the Associated Students of Cascades Campus, addressed the OSU Board of Trustees on Friday. He noted that the three events happened in quick succession, causing anxiety regarding physical and emotional safety among the student body. Woekel reported that campus partners are re-examining emergency protocols, specifically those for active shooter situations. The student government is also pushing to improve awareness of sexual violence prevention resources across the Bend campus.
In response to the assaults, interim Chancellor and Dean Christine Pollard sent messages to students. She described the creation of a safe campus as a shared responsibility and encouraged the close-knit community to support one another. Her communications included lists of confidential and non-confidential resources for those affected by sexual violence.
Board of Trustees Chair Karla Chambers responded to Woekel's remarks. She stated that the entire OSU family stands with the Bend community. Chambers acknowledged that the healing process will take a substantial amount of time.
The university closed on the Friday following the shooting and reopened for classes at the start of this week. Bend-La Pine Schools remained closed during that period. Silver Rail Elementary is closed indefinitely. Student leaders established letter-writing stations to send support messages to the school's parent-teacher organization. Employees at the campus Makerspace lab constructed an engraved memorial shrine. Student Health and Wellness and the Student Counseling Center have opened confidential drop-in sessions for anyone, regardless of direct impact.
Woekel said the community has remained unified during this period. The National Sexual Assault Hotline is available at 800-656-4673. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers confidential crisis counseling by calling or texting 1-800-985-5990.
