Photo credit: Deb Grove

For the third consecutive year, Franklin & Marshall has been awarded a grant through the It’s On Us PA grant program. Supported by Governor Josh Shapiro and education leaders, the statewide campaign invites Pennsylvanians to join in the work of protecting students from sexual violence. 

“This achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to creating a safe and respectful campus environment for our students, faculty, and staff,” said Sam Thiry, F&M director of wellness programs. “Over the last two years, this funding has empowered us to make significant strides regarding sexual violence prevention and awareness.”

With the grant funds awarded in previous years, the College has invested in student leadership and training, expanding a dedicated group of peer health educators who provide health and wellness advocacy and programming on campus. 

For Nayelli Whitehead ’27, getting involved with It’s On Us was an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on campus and provide valuable support to fellow students. 

“The impact we have can be life-changing,” said Whitehead. “I truly believe in the mission of It’s On Us. To prevent on-campus sexual assault, we all have to work together to spread awareness and create the norms we would like to see present in campus culture.”

Other initiatives have included campus-wide awareness campaigns, events featuring high-impact speakers and educators, and partnerships with local organizations including YWCA Lancaster, Domestic Violence Services of Lancaster, and Planned Parenthood Keystone to provide confidential, no-cost support to those impacted by sexual and relationship violence. 

“I look forward to working with my colleagues and my team of amazing Peer Health Educators to launch innovative and impactful programs aimed at preventing sexual and relationship violence on campus,” said Thiry. “This third year of funding will allow us to continue doing this critical work alongside our dedicated students, faculty, staff, and community partners.”