OSU-Cascades Extends Safety Patrols to 24-Hour Shifts
University leaders increased coverage following two reported assaults in student housing and a shooting at a nearby elementary school.
By Sarah Montgomery ·
Oregon State University’s Cascades campus in Bend has extended its safety staff hours to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The change follows two reported sexual assaults in campus housing and a shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School.
The sexual assaults were reported on October 8 and October 10 in the university’s only residential hall. University officials stated in a letter to students that the victim did not know the assailant. Both incidents remain under investigation.
Charlie Woekel, president of the Associated Students of Cascades Campus, addressed the OSU Board of Trustees at their Friday meeting. He noted that three distinct events occurred within a seven-day span, causing concern for the physical, sexual, and emotional safety of the student body.
Student leaders are urging campus partners to re-examine and expand emergency protocols, specifically those for active shooter situations. They also aim to ensure students are aware of sexual violence prevention and response resources available on the Bend campus.
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, while Silver Rail Elementary is closed indefinitely. Student health and counseling centers have opened confidential drop-in sessions for those directly or indirectly impacted by the recent events.
Interim Chancellor and Dean Christine Pollard wrote to students after the assault reports, emphasizing that creating a safe campus is a shared responsibility. Board of Trustees Chair Karla Chambers also addressed the community, stating that the entire OSU family stands with the Bend community during this period of healing.
The National Sexual Assault Hotline is available at 800-656-4673, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers 24-hour crisis counseling at 1-800-985-5990.
