Previously called the Sexual Assault Victim Advocate (SAVA)

Who They Are

Andrew Shepard (they/them)

cra@bates.edu | 207-753-6996 |  Chase Hall, 001E

Available:  Regular business hours and by appointment

In addition to working as the CRA, Andrew serves as a Coordinator of Residence Life. As a live-in staff member, they work to help foster a safe community and connect students to resources on and off-campus. To reach Andrew at their personal email address for Residence Life related concerns, contact ashepard2@bates.edu.

What the CRA Does

As the Confidential Resource Advisor (CRA), Andrew provides support and advocacy for individuals who have experienced any form of harassment, discrimination, or sexual or interpersonal violence. The CRA can speak confidentially with Bates community members: to answer questions about reporting incidents to the college or local law enforcement; discuss the different resolution process options under Bates policy; and help individuals determine which choices and next steps may be best for them. The CRA also provides open, empathetic listening for community members who simply wish to work through an experience in community with someone else. In addition, the CRA often speaks with friends and loved ones of individuals who have experienced incidents of interpersonal violence to discuss how they can be supportive to their friend or loved one.

Please note that the CRA is available to support and assist Bates community members regardless of where or when an incident happened or who caused the harm.

How The CRA Can Help

The CRA can help individuals by:

• Listening to and supporting them;
• Connecting individuals with other resources, both on campus and off campus;
• Helping individuals file a report with the college or with local law enforcement;
• Explaining Bates community members’ rights and options under the Bates Equal Opportunity, Non-Discrimination, and Anti-Harassment Policy;
• Providing information about self-care;
• Helping develop a safety plan;
• Attending meeting as an advisor or support person; and
• Assisting individuals with navigating the medical and legal systems.