OSU-Cascades Students Demand Round-the-Clock Safety Patrols After Week of Violence

Students at the Oregon State University Cascades campus in Bend are demanding expanded safety protocols after two sexual assaults in campus housing and a shooting at a nearby elementary school occurred within seven days. The incidents have prompted the university to extend campus safety coverage to 24 hours a day, seven days a week, a change student leaders say was necessary to address immediate fears.

The timeline of events began on Oct. 8 with the first reported sexual assault in the campus's only residential hall. A second assault was reported on Oct. 10. University officials confirmed in a letter to students that the victim in the second case did not know the assailant. Both cases remain under investigation. On Oct. 16, a shooting occurred at Silver Rail Elementary School, located a few miles from the university. The campus closed for that day and reopened for classes at the start of this week.

Charlie Woekel, president of the Associated Students of Cascades Campus, presented the student body's concerns to the OSU Board of Trustees at its Friday meeting. He noted that the three distinct events have left students concerned for their physical, sexual, and emotional safety. Woekel stated that student leaders are urging campus partners to re-examine and expand emergency protocols, specifically those related to active shooters. They are also pushing for better communication regarding sexual violence prevention and response resources.

Interim Chancellor and Dean Christine Pollard addressed the community following the assault reports. She wrote that creating a safe campus is a shared responsibility and encouraged students to support one another. Her messages included lists of confidential and non-confidential resources for those affected by sexual violence. Board of Trustees Chair Karla Chambers also spoke during the meeting, stating that the entire OSU family stands with the Bend community.

Silver Rail Elementary remains closed indefinitely, while the Bend-La Pine Schools district has reopened. On the university campus, student leaders have established letter-writing stations for messages of support to the school's parent-teacher organization. Student employees in the Makerspace lab built an engraved memorial shrine. Student Health and Wellness and the Student Counseling Center have opened confidential drop-in sessions for anyone, whether directly impacted or not.

The local incidents are part of a wider conversation about campus sexual violence. Five incidents were reported during the first week of classes at the University of Oregon's Eugene campus. National discussion continues over an alleged 2024 rape case at Cornell University. Woekel said the community has remained unified in helping one another get through the difficult period.