National Advocate Katie Koestner to Headline Consent Week at USAO
The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma will host national sexual assault prevention advocate Katie Koestner on Tuesday, February 10th, as part of the university’s annual Consent Week program. Koestner will lead a keynote address and a student workshop in the Davis Hall Amphitheater.
Koestner, a pioneer in the movement to end campus sexual violence, became the first person in the United States to speak out publicly as a victim of campus date rape in 1990. Her advocacy led to her appearance on the cover of TIME magazine and sparked a national conversation regarding student safety and legal reform.
The evening is sponsored by the USAO Student Life office and the Student Government Association. The event schedule is as follows:
5 – 5:50 p.m.: Keynote Address – "No-Yes: Katie Koestner’s Personal Story"
Koestner will share her personal experiences and discuss the complexities of consent, the impact of sexual violence, and the importance of survivor advocacy.
6 – 6:50 p.m.: Student Workshop – "How to be an Agent of Change at 18 and Beyond"
This interactive session will provide students with practical tools to foster a culture of respect, intervene as active bystanders, and lead social change within their communities.
"We are honored to bring a speaker of Katie’s caliber to USAO," said Cameron Roberts, Director of Student Life at USAO. "Her story is not only a historical milestone in student advocacy but a vital resource for our students as they navigate personal boundaries and learn how to support one another."
Koestner’s work has been featured on "The Oprah Winfrey Show," "Good Morning America," and "CNN." She is the founder of Campus Outreach Services and has consulted for the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of Defense.
Both events are free and open to all USAO students.
About USAO:
The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma is Oklahoma’s only public liberal arts college. Located in Chickasha, USAO is a distinctive institution offering a challenging interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. With a focus on broad-based education and civic responsibility, USAO prepares students to become well-rounded, adaptable leaders ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world.
Contact: Hannah Thompson | 405-574-1362