In a game that proved to be a thrilling win over the Iowa Hawkeyes at home, MSU’s players displayed athleticism, poise, good sportsmanship and a bountiful display of purple hair ribbons. To match, fans pinned purple ribbons to their Spartan fan gear as they cheered for their team. The reason? To bring awareness to survivors of domestic violence and support University Health and Wellbeing's Center for Survivors and Safe Place. During a break between sets, employees and volunteers were honored for the critical work they do to support survivors of relationship violence and sexual misconduct.
“One of the values our team really emphasizes is that of the Spartan family and what it means to be part of the Spartan family. To be a part of something bigger than yourself,” said MSU volleyball Head Coach Kristen Kelsay.
“Most importantly, how we treat those not only in our Spartan family, but our community, and how anyone who walks into our gym or walks into our program is instantly, in that moment, a part of our small Spartan volleyball family. I’m really proud of our program and for Michigan State Athletics to raise awareness and support MSU Safe Place and to know that there is a safe place for survivors to go to, to be taken care of, and to navigate through these next steps.”
Nationwide, the month of October honors Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Since 1994, MSU has operated Safe Place, a first-of-its-kind shelter providing support for survivors of intimate partner violence and stalking. Safe Place serves students, faculty, staff, their partners, and the surrounding community of Ingham County.
“This partnership between MSU volleyball and Safe Place is powerful — it shows that whether on the court or in the community, it takes a team to raise awareness about domestic violence. Survivors shouldn’t have to volley between multiple entities to get help,” says Danielle Fenton, interim co-director of Center for Survivors.
“At Safe Place, they’re met with trauma-informed support all in one place by an amazing team of advocates, therapists, and staff. We’re incredibly grateful to MSU volleyball for helping us amplify this message during Domestic Violence Awareness Month,” Fenton added.
MSU Safe Place celebrated 30 years of operation last year, while the Center for Survivors is celebrating its 45th year.
“During Domestic Violence Awareness Month — and every day — we want survivors to know they are not alone. At the Center for Survivors, including Safe Place, support goes beyond listening. Our advocates help survivors navigate tough decisions like reporting options, academic accommodations, safety planning, and even housing or financial concerns,” said Kathleen Miller, associate director/advocacy supervisor and co-interim director of Center for Survivors.
“Survivors also have access to counseling and support groups tailored to their unique needs and goals. This collaboration with MSU volleyball reminds our campus that healing is possible and that every Spartan deserves safety, dignity and support.”
Learn more about Safe Place and other survivor-related services at the Center for Survivors website.
