FMU Student Life Awarded Grant

Francis Marion University’s Office of Student Life was awarded a $1,000 grant from the South Carolina Institute on the Prevention of Sexual Violence on College Campuses (SCIP) to support programming focused on raising awareness about sexual assault.

As part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Student Life hosted two events—a Denim Design Night and a Denim Day Fashion Show—designed to encourage open dialogue on the topic while engaging students in creative expression. Thirty-five students participated in the Denim Design Night, bringing their own denim items to decorate in preparation for the fashion show.

The Denim Day Fashion Show showcased student creativity and featured guest speakers from the Pee Dee Coalition, FMU Counseling and Testing Center, Campus Police, and SCIP, all of whom contributed to meaningful conversations around prevention and support. The events provided an opportunity to begin and sustain important discussions in a way that was both engaging and student-centered.

Dr. Matt Hammett, Executive Director of SCIP, praised the initiative, stating, “We were honored to support and participate in such a thoughtful and creative program. The enthusiasm and dedication put into making the Denim Day Fashion Show a success were truly inspiring. Our ongoing partnership between SCIP and Francis Marion University continues to be deeply rewarding. FMU remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a safe community free from sexual violence, and we look forward to future collaborative initiatives.”