As college students navigate academic pressure, relationships and personal challenges, access to safe and supportive campus resources can play an important role in student well-being. At UW Bothell and Cascadia College, the advocates at the Violence Prevention & Advocacy office (VPA) are working to ensure students have access to confidential support while promoting a campus culture centered on respect and healthy relationships.
Ruth Medina is a confidential advocate serving both campuses and joined the office this past March. Her main responsibilities include supporting student survivors through confidential advocacy, connecting students with community resources, and helping lead education efforts for students, faculty, and staff.
Before joining VPA, Medina earned her master’s degree in social work from the University of Washington Seattle and worked in clinical social work settings including hospitals and the Department of Children, Youth and Families. She is also an alumna of both Cascadia College and UW Bothell, where she participated in student advocacy efforts during her time on campus.
“While I was a UWB student, I co-led and co-founded The Parent Union and The Making School Accessible projects through peaceful protesting and advocacy,” Medina shared.
One of the office’s primary goals this academic year is increasing awareness of the resources available to students. Medina explained that many enrolled students may not realize free confidential advocacy services exist on campus or may feel hesitant about reaching out for help. “We have advocates on campus ready to be there to support them and guide them through resources on and off campus, and students deserve to know that we are here for them.”
The VPA office provides both emotional and academic support to students experiencing difficult situations. The office uses trauma-informed care practices and provides students with a private and welcoming environment.
“We have a comfortable space dedicated specifically to the student’s privacy with comfortable weighted blankets, fidgets, and candy,” Medina said. “We want students to feel comfortable, welcomed, and most importantly heard and supported.”
Academic support is also available for students whose experiences may impact their coursework. With student consent, the office can assist with requesting deadline extensions, adjusting group work requirements, and coordinating support with faculty and the Civil Rights Office.
Additionally, the office focuses heavily on violence prevention education and awareness programming. VPA works alongside a Student Advising Group that helps organize events and provide feedback on student needs. Educational programming thoughout the year includes orientations, classroom presentations, and special campus events focused on healthy relationships.
According to Medina, students should take advantage of all support services available on campus, especially if they are uncertain about their situation or simply need someone to talk to. When asked about warning signs of unhealthy relationships, Medina recommends looking out for “gaslighting, disrespect, dishonesty, trying to take control or manipulation and isolation.” For students who may feel unsure about seeking help, confidential support is available without pressure or judgment.
If you are feeling uncomfortable in a relationship and you are just unsure of whether or not it is abuse, come see us,” Medina said. “We are confidential which means we will not share what you tell us with anyone. We will provide a listening ear for you and we will be happy to inform you about healthy relationships and what they should look like.” At UW Bothell, you do not have to go through it alone!
Students can access VPA services by scheduling an appointment online, emailing uwbvpa@uw.edu, calling 425-352-3851, or visiting the office in UW1-061.
Meet the Staff:
Prevention & Education Program Manager/ Confidential Advocate: Sam Harkness shark9@uw.edu
Assistant Director/ Confidential Advocate: Melissa Tumas tumasm@uw.edu
Confidential Advocate: Ruth Medina medinar1@uw.edu
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