Rape & Sexual Assault Resources

For those who have experienced or witnessed sexual assault and/or those who would like to be informed.

On September 14th, a lawsuit from a former Cornell University student was filed, reporting a drugging and gang rape by 7 members of the Phi Chi fraternity. With the significant reporting done in the Cornell Daily Sun, a student journalist broke the story by repeatedly naming and circulating the identities of the accused fraternity brothers. The incident quickly became national news, opening up conversations about rape culture and sexual abuse in fraternities, the neglect of institutional punishment for offenders, and overall a culture and system that solicits and covers up sexual violence against women.

Last month, the Office of Campus Safety revised and released the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report for 2026 to the public. The report contains campus crime statistics including fondling, burglary, rape, disciplinary referrals, hate crimes, and more. The rape category notes that there were 53 reports of rape in residential facilities in 2024. At the bottom of the statistics sheet, it notes that 52 of the 53 rape incidents reported to the College in 2024 allegedly occurred in 2022 and allegedly involved the same alleged victim and alleged perpetrator. This statistic should be considered alongside unreported assaults. According to data from organizations like RAINN and the American Psychological Association, about 80% to 90% of campus sexual assaults are never reported to authorities. (RAINN, 2026) Additionally, many victims face obstacles to reporting their assault, including a difficult-to-navigate Title IX process and office, the intimidation of law enforcement, and fear of social retaliation.

Despite being a small liberal arts campus, rape and sexual assault still occur at Bennington College. Though different, Bennington’s crime statistics report and Cornell’s 7 cases circulating in September highlight a serious issue among college campuses: a culture that normalizes, trivializes, excuses, and ignores sexual violence. As a student-led newspaper, The Bennington Lens is dedicated to providing a safe, supportive platform where students can find trustworthy information while navigating their college experience. During this important and ongoing conversation regarding sexual violence in higher education, we have constructed a list that highlights on- and off-campus resources for students.

On Campus Resources

Ali Tartaglia, Associate Dean and Director of Integrated Wellness, can be reached at 802-440-4444 (dial x4444 on campus) – talk or text, for 24/7 support (confidential). She can also be reached at her office, 802-440-4755 (dial x4755 on campus). Dr. Ali is a resource for students who have experienced sexual misconduct. She can speak with someone about the process, help navigate services, and provide support.
Steven Young, Associate Director of Outreach and Support, can be reached at 802-440-4396 and can also be contacted to speak confidentially about the process and receive assistance navigating services.
All clinical staff in Counseling and Psychological Services (x4451; off campus: 802-440-4451)
All clinical staff in Health Services (x4426; off campus: 802-440-4426)

Off Campus Resources