ARC3 Survey Findings and Recommendations 2025
2 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS
3 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS 2025 ARC3 Survey Findings and Recommendations
Table of Contents Introduction............................................................................................................................................ 5 Acknowledgements. .........................................................................................................................................5 Definitions..........................................................................................................................................................8 Executive Summary. .......................................................................................................................................10 Progress on 2022 ARC3 Recommendations.................................................................................................12 Findings................................................................................................................................................ 13 Demographics.................................................................................................................................................13 Campus Safety................................................................................................................................................15 Campus Safety by Gender..............................................................................................................................16 Peer Norms......................................................................................................................................................17 Perceptions of Campus Climate....................................................................................................................18 Peer Responses. .............................................................................................................................................20 Knowledge of Resources................................................................................................................................21 Consent............................................................................................................................................................22 Training Regarding Sexual Misconduct.........................................................................................................23 Bystander Intervention....................................................................................................................................26 Sexual Harassment by Faculty, Instructor, Staff. ..........................................................................................27 Sexual Harassment by Student......................................................................................................................30 Stalking............................................................................................................................................................33 Prevalence of Stalking.................................................................................................................................34 Dating Violence . .............................................................................................................................................35 Prevalence of Dating Violence....................................................................................................................36 Sexual Violence ..............................................................................................................................................37 Prevalence of Sexual Violence ...................................................................................................................40 Institutional Responses..................................................................................................................................41 Formal Reporting of Victimization.................................................................................................................44 Summary.............................................................................................................................................. 45 Recommendations..........................................................................................................................................45
5 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Acknowledgments: The Division of Student Affairs extends our sincere gratitude to all of the students who shared their experiences and perspectives with us. We are especially appreciative of those who courageously recounted their victimization to help us further develop our programs, promote resources, raise awareness, and help others avoid similar experiences in the future. Thank you to those who promoted the survey and support Student Affairs in spreading the word about the importance of this work. A special thanks to Dr. Brenda Mammenga for her assistance with survey dissemination and for compiling the key findings included in the final report. Resources At Northern: This report contains information and material about sexual violence, harassment, stalking, and dating violence. Should you, or someone you know, need support or assistance at Northern, you may contact any of the following support services: Krista Bau, Title IX Coordinator Student Center, 222 605-626-3007 Eric Paul, Campus Police Officer Student Center, 222 605-380-8925 Susan Bostian, Deputy Title IX Coordinator 605-626-2520 Counseling Services (Confidential) Student Center, 222 605-626-3007 Safe Harbor (Confidential, 24/7 Helpline) 2005 S Merton Street 605-226-1212 National Sexual Assault Hotline (Confidential, 24/7 Support) 1-800-656-4673 National Domestic Violence Hotline (Confidential, 24/7 Support) 1-800-799-7233
6 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS About the Office of Title IX: The Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities/Title IX Coordinator is responsible for leading and coordinating the University’s efforts to ensure compliance with Title IX of the Higher Education Act of 1972. This includes the development, implementation, and oversight of policies, procedures, and processes related to Title IX disclosures and responses. Additional responsibilities of the Title IX Coordinator include: • Providing training and education on Title IX and the complaint resolution process • Ensuring access to supportive measures and available resources • Overseeing fair and timely resolution options for all parties involved • Promoting awareness and understanding of rights and responsibilities under Title IX Northern State University remains committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment free from harassment and discrimination for all students, faculty, and staff. About Student Affairs: Student Affairs advances the student success agenda of Northern State University through engagement, holistic wellness, providing excellent student-centered services and the Student Affairs Strategic Plan (2025-30). We are Campus Recreation and Intramurals, Campus Safety, Community Service and Civic Engagement, Counseling Services, Dean of Students Office, Dining Services, New Student Programs (HOWL and Wolf Pack Welcome), Northern State Welcome Desk, Residence Life, Student Accessibility Services, Student Activities and Involvement, Student Center, Student Government Association, Student Health Services, Student Organizations, Student Rights and Responsibilities, Summer Camps and Conferences, Title IX, and Wellness and Prevention Services. About Northern State University: Founded in 1901, Northern State University is a student-centered institution that provides an outstanding educational experience, preparing students through the liberal arts and professional education for their future endeavors. A regional university, Northern offers a personalized educational experience, with rigorous, nationally accredited academic programs in arts and sciences, business, fine arts, and teacher education. With more than 45 majors, 55 minors and 16 pre-professional programs, Northern provides hands-on learning and internship opportunities that help unleash students’ potential. The university strives to enrich the community through partnerships such as its Educational Impact Campaign. With the $55 million campaign, NSU has been the recipient of more than $150 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade.
7 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Land Acknowledgment: Northern State University (NSU) acknowledges South Dakota as the ancestral territory of the Santee, Yankton, and Teton Lakota, which is an alliance known as the Oceti Sakowin (o-che-tee sha-koh-ween) (Seven Council Fires). Oceti Sakowin is historically known as the Sioux by non-Native people. The nine Native Nations that share the state’s geography include: Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe, Lower Brule Sioux Tribe, Oglala Sioux Tribe, Rosebud Sioux Tribe, Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate, Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, and Yankton Sioux Tribe. Northern State University acknowledges that before this land was called South Dakota, it was home to many Native Nations indigenous to this area. It is with profound respect that we acknowledge the indigenous peoples of this land past, present and future. Title IX Commitment Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal funding. It states: “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” Northern State University fully embraces both the spirit and legal requirements of Title IX, striving to uphold a campus culture rooted in safety, equity, and respect. Purpose of the ARC3 Survey Northern State University administers the Administrator Researcher Campus Climate Collaborative (ARC3) Campus Climate Survey to assess students’ experiences and perceptions related to sexual misconduct, dating and domestic violence, stalking, sexual harassment, institutional response, and general campus safety. The survey provides critical insight into the effectiveness of prevention efforts, policies, and support services. The 2025 administration offers an opportunity to evaluate progress since 2022 and identify emerging trends and needs. This evidence-based tool is designed for higher education institutions to assess student perceptions, knowledge, and experiences related to sexual misconduct and campus response. The ARC3 includes 19 modules covering: • Sexual harassment • Dating and intimate partner violence • Stalking • Victimization and perpetration • Awareness of resources and prevention programs • Student knowledge and attitudes 1Administrator-Researcher Campus Climate Collaborative. (2015). ARC3 Campus Climate Survey regarding Sexual Misconduct: Guiding Principles. Available from http://campusclimate.gsu.edu.
8 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS In 2025, all undergraduate and graduate degree-seeking students (N=1,083) were invited to participate. While the response rate was 13%, lower than in 2022, the results still offer valuable insights into ongoing progress and remaining areas for growth. Additionally, data limitations such as self-reported data, gender participation, and small sample size can impact results. Despite these limitations, the ARC3 survey remains a reliable tool for assessing campus climate and guiding evidence-based improvements. It is important to recognize the ongoing challenge of collecting accurate data on sexual misconduct. According to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (NISVS): • 26.8% of women and 3% of men report having experienced completed or attempted rape in their lifetime. • Nearly 50% of women and 25% of men report having experienced some form of sexual violence in the past year. These sobering statistics highlight that sexual misconduct has significant impacts that can extend throughout a person’s life. Data collection is critical to understanding these issues, informing prevention and education initiatives, and ensuring support and resources are available to those affected. Northern State University remains committed to using this data to strengthen efforts in stopping, preventing, and remedying sexual misconduct on campus and beyond. This comparison highlights progress made, persistent concerns, and strategic opportunities to enhance student well-being and safety. Definitions The ARC3 survey does not define terms related to sex or gender-based discrimination for participants. For the purposes of the survey, sexual misconduct definitions are defined by the South Dakota Board of Regents: Dating violence means violence committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim. 1) The existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on the reporting party’s statement and with consideration of the length of the relationship, the type of relationship, and the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship. 2) For the purposes of this definition, a) Dating violence includes, but is not limited to, sexual or physical abuse or the threat of such abuse. b) Dating violence does not include acts covered under the definition of domestic violence. Sexual assault means any offense that constitutes rape, fondling, incest, or statutory rape: 1) Rape has the same meaning as given above in § 3(B)(2)(b). 2) Fondling means the touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual gratification, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her age or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental incapacity. 3) Incest means sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by SDCL § 25-1-6, which provides that: Basile, K.C., Smith, S.G., Kresnow, M., Khatiwada S., & Leemis, R.W. (2022). The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey: 2016/2017 Report on Sexual Violence. National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ violenceprevention/pdf/nisvs/nisvsReportonSexualViolence.pdf 2 South Dakota Board of Regents Policy Manual. (2025). Prevention of Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking, 1.4.2. Available from https://public.powerdms.com/SDRegents/tree/documents/1729423.
9 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Marriages between parents and children, ancestors and descendants of every degree, and between brothers and sisters of the half as well as the whole blood, and between uncles and nieces, or aunts and nephews, and between cousins of the half as well as of the whole blood, are null and void from the beginning, whether the relationship is legitimate or illegitimate. The relationships provided for in this section include such relationships that arise through adoption. 4) Statutory Rape means sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of sixteen. Stalking means: 1) Engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to: a) Fear for the person’s safety or the safety of others; or b) Suffer substantial emotional distress. 2) For the purposes of this definition: a) Course of conduct means two or more acts, including, but not limited to, acts in which the stalker directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by any action, method, device, or means, follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates to or about a person, or interferes with a person’s property. b) Reasonable person means a reasonable person under similar circumstances and with similar identities to the victim. c) Substantial emotional distress means significant mental suffering or anguish that may, but does not necessarily, require medical or other professional treatment or counseling. Consent may be implied from the facts and circumstances surrounding the commission of an act. Consent will not be found where an act has been done through the use of force, coercion, or threats of immediate and great bodily harm. Submission does not equal consent, and to establish consent, a party charged must utterly negate any element of force, coercion, or threat. Consent, once given, may be retracted. Consent will not be found under any of the following circumstances: 1) if the victim is less than thirteen years of age; or 2) through the use of force, coercion, or threats of immediate and great bodily harm against the victim or other persons within the victim’s presence, accompanied by apparent power of execution; or 3) if the victim is incapable, because of physical or mental incapacity, of giving consent to such act; or 4) if the victim is incapable of giving consent because of any intoxicating, narcotic, or anesthetic agent or hypnosis; or if the victim is thirteen years of age, but less than sixteen years of age, and the perpetrator is at least three years older than the victim. Sexual harassment3: Conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more of the following: 1)An employee of an institutional conditioning the provision of education benefits on participation in unwelcome sexual conduct (i.e., quid pro quo); or 2)Unwelcome conduct that a reasonable person would determine is so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the institution’s education program or activity; or 3)Sexual assault (as defined in the Clery Act), dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking as defined in the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), the definitions of which are set forth in BOR Policy 1.4.1
10 2022 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Executive Summary The 2025 ARC3 (Administrator Researcher Campus Climate Collaborative) survey provides a comprehensive evaluation of perceptions of safety, experiences of sexual misconduct, reporting behaviors, and views of institutional response at Northern State University. The 2025 results indicate substantial improvements across key institutional response measures and awareness indicators, while also identifying areas where additional focus is needed to strengthen campus safety and support. Students in 2025 reported stronger awareness of Title IX processes, increased confidence in institutional response fairness, and greater familiarity with campus resources compared to 2022. However, gender disparities in perceived safety widened, and the majority of students who experienced sexual misconduct did not disclose their experience before taking the survey. Alcohol-related risk factors and off-campus incidents remain persistent concerns. Northern State University has made meaningful progress through improved programming, prevention initiatives, expanded training, and increased staff engagement. The findings support continued investment in trauma-informed practices, bystander intervention training, alcohol-related consent education, and efforts to increase survey representativeness. The recommendations outlined in this report provide a strategic roadmap for sustaining progress and addressing remaining gaps in student safety, awareness, and support. Key Improvements (2022-2025) • Increased sense of safety for women: Women reported a greater sense of safety on campus in 2025 compared to 2022. • Improved consent education and awareness: Students in 2025 demonstrated a stronger understanding of affirmative consent and expressed greater knowledge of where and how to report incidents. • More positive perceptions of institutional response: Students were more likely to believe the university would take reports seriously, provide accommodations, and handle cases fairly. • Knowledge of resources: Students reported being more familiar with campus and community resources. Additionally, students increased their knowledge of knowing where to go to report. 3 South Dakota Board of Regents Policy Manual. (2025). Sexual Harassment, 1.4.1. Available from https://public.powerdms.com/SDRegents/tree/ documents/1729424.
11 2022 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Persistent Challenges • Limited male participation: Fewer men took the survey, resulting in a lack of insight into their experiences and perceptions. • Stigma around reporting: A portion of students still fear being labeled a troublemaker or facing retaliation from peers or alleged offenders. • Incidents involving alcohol remain a concern: Many reported cases of sexual violence continue to involve situations where the victim was intoxicated or incapacitated. • Gaps in Bystander Intervention Some students report uncertainty or discomfort in knowing how to safely intervene or support someone who may be in a risky or potentially harmful situation.
2022 ARC3 12 SURVEY FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Progress of 2022 ARC3 Recommendations 2022 Goal Recommendation Met 1. Administer ARC3 survey every two years with priority metrics for tracking ✓ Met 2. Increase participation by male-identifying students to ensure more representative data. ✗ Negative Change 3. Prioritize stalking in prevention campaigns and education due to 17% of women indicating concern. ✓ Improved 4. Increase students’ knowledge of how to support peers and access resources. ✓ Met 5. Increase student awareness of where and how to report sexual misconduct. ✓ Met 6.Increase student willingness to intervene in risky or unsafe scenarios. ✗ Negative Change 7. Raise awareness about alcohol and drug use as key risk factors. ✓ Met 8. Improve the perception that Northern acknowledges and addresses sexual misconduct. ✓ Met 9. Reduce the number of students who do not disclose their experiences. ✗ Minimal Change 10. Post reports on the university website for accessibility and transparency. ✓ In Progress, Met
13 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS 2% 0% 0% 5% 2% 79% 3% 6% 2% Asian or Asian American Black/African American Hawaiian or Pacific Islander Hispanic or Latino/a Native American or Alaskan Native White/Caucasian Two or more races International student A race not listed here Demographics Demographic profile of survey participants Gender: Age: Race/ethnicity: 70% 22% 0% 1% 6% 1% Woman Man Transwoman Transman Genderqueer/gender non-… A gender not listed here 9% 47% 25% 5% 14% 17-18 19-20 21-22 23-25 26+ Academic class: 34% 24% 23% 14% 5% Freshman Sophomore Junior Senior+ Graduate-level Housing: 47% 35% 19% On-campus residence Off-campus housing At home with parent(s) or guardian(s) Sexual orientation: 0% 5% 7% 3% 79% 0% 6% Gay Lesbian Bisexual Asexual Heterosexual/straight Queer A sexual orientation not listed
14 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Demographics Questions about demographic information were asked at the end of the survey. Due to the nature of the survey, some participants did not answer all the questions in the survey and the results reported are those who were able to reach the demographic questions. The majority of participants who completed the survey were women (70%) while men accounted for 22% of the population. Most participants were also between the ages of 19-22 (47%) and were within the first two years of their academic programs (58%). Additionally, the majority of participants also reported that they lived off-campus (54%). In 2022, more on-campus students completed the survey at 60%. When asked about their race/ethnicity, participants indicated that the majority were White/Caucasian (79%), then International student (6%), Hispanic/Latino/a (5%), two or more races (3%), Asian/Asian American (2%), Black/African American (0%), and Native American/Alaskan Native (2%). Due the smaller number of participants in minority groups, disaggregate data was not reviewed. Participants were also asked about their sexual orientation. 79% of participants reported being heterosexual and 15% indicated they identified as part of the LGBTQA+ community. Currently, Northern does not maintain a summary of sexual orientation data for the broader student population, which limits direct comparison.
15 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS I feel safe on campus at Northern. I don’t think sexual violence is a problem at Northern. I don’t think there is much I can do about sexual violence on this campus. There isn’t much need for me to think about sexual violence while at college. On or around this campus, I feel safe from sexual harassment. On or around this campus, I feel safe from stalking. On or around this campus I feel safe from dating violence. On or around this campus, I feel safe from sexual violence. I would recommend attending Northern to others. If I had to do it over again, I would still attend Northern. -4% -5% -21% -31% -40% -50% -47% -65% -9% -6% -8% -11% -5% -4% -1% -8% -2% -4% -4% 79% 82% 46% 34% 19% 21% 20% 16% 77% 75% 75% 69% 78% 81% 78% 77% 91% 87% 83% 73% % Disagree or Strongly disagree % Agree or Strongly agree 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 Campus Safety Questions about general perceptions of Northern State University Please indicate the degree to which you agree with the following statements. Campus Safety Participants were asked to indicate their level of agreement with statements related to sexual violence safety at Northern. A majority (79%) reported feeling safe on campus in 2025, a slight decrease from 82% in 2022. Perceptions around the prevalence of sexual violence have shifted as well. In 2025, 46% of students agreed that sexual violence is not a problem at Northern—an increase from 34% in 2022. Additionally, fewer students in 2025 felt that sexual violence is something they need to actively think about while in college. In 2022, 65% of students agreed with this sentiment, compared to only 47% in 2025. Overall, the data suggests that while students generally feel safe, the declining perceived relevance of sexual violence as a campus issue may indicate a need to strengthen ongoing education and engagement efforts to maintain awareness and promote a proactive culture of prevention.
16 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS -5% -7% -25% -40% -50% -54% -60% -69% -6% -11% -10% -17% -9% -7% -1% -12% -4% -4% -5% -6% 87% 78% 41% 21% 17% 19% 22% 9% 78% 66% 72% 58% 75% 73% 77% 68% 91% 86% 82% 74% Perceptions of Campus Safety by Gender Please indicate the degree to which you agree with the following statements. Women Men I feel safe on campus at Northern. I don’t think sexual violence is a problem at Northern. I don’t think there is much I can do about sexual violence on this campus. There isn’t much need for me to think about sexual violence while at college. On or around this campus, I feel safe from sexual harassment. On or around this campus, I feel safe from stalking. On or around this campus I feel safe from dating violence. On or around this campus, I feel safe from sexual violence. I would recommend attending Northern to others. If I had to do it over again, I would still attend Northern. Perceptions of Campus Safety by Gender Breaking down the data by gender provides valuable insight into how male and female students perceive campus safety related to sexual misconduct. In 2025, 87% of female students reported feeling safe at northern, compared to 78% in 2022. This positive shift may be attributed to enhanced safety initiatives implemented by Northern in 2023, including improved lighting on the campus green and updated campus police officer hours (now Tuesday– Friday, 12 p.m.–10 p.m., with increased presence in residence halls). These changes likely contributed to a greater sense of security among female students. Conversely, male students reported feeling slightly less safe in 2025 compared to 2022. While the decline was not large, the reversal is notable. This shift may reflect changes in campus culture, differing interpretations of safety, or increased male awareness of risks or responsibilities related to sexual -3% -2% -17% -20% -26% -45% -29% -61% -12% 0% -5% -3% 0% 0% 0% -1% 0% -4% -3% -13% 68% 89% 53% 52% 22% 24% 17% 25% 75% 89% 78% 84% 82% 92% 78% 89% 90% 87% 84% 71% 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 -89% -90% -88% -93% -87% -88% -94% -90% -92% -96% -92% -97% 2% 1% 3% 1% 3% 2% 0% 4% 2% 1% 2% 1% % Never / Rarely % Frequently /Always
17 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS misconduct. The contrast between rising safety perceptions among women and declining ones among men suggests that gendered experiences of safety continue to vary and should be explored further. When asked whether sexual violence is a problem at Northern, 25% of females and 17% of males agreed in 2025 compared to 40% of females and 20% of males in 2022. While this data could indicate a perception that sexual violence has become less of an issue over time they could also point to reduced awareness, reporting, or concern, highlighting the importance of maintaining education and prevention efforts. A reduced perception of risk does not necessarily mean the problem has been resolved. Peer Norms Questions about perceived attitudes among friends towards sexual conduct To what extent would your friends approve of: Having many sexual partners. Telling stories about sexual experiences. Getting someone drunk or high to have sex with them. Lying to someone in order to have sex with them. Forcing someone to have sex. Using physical force, such as hitting or beating, to resolve conflicts with dates. Insulting or swearing at their dates. My friends tell me that: It is alright for someone to hit a date in certain situations. Someone you are dating should have sex with you when you want. When you spend money on a date, the person should have sex with you in return. You should respond to a date’s challenges to your authority by insulting them or putting them down. It is alright to physically force a person to have sex under certain conditions. -72% -60% -41% -35% -96% -95% -97% -95% -100% -99% -100% -99% -99% -97% 8% 14% 25% 35% 0% 2% 1% 2% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 1% % Disagree or Strongly disagree % Agree or Strongly agree -99% -96% -92% -91% -99% -97% -98% -99% -100% -99% 1% 1% 1% 3% 0% 1% 0% 0% 0% 0% % Disagree or Strongly disagree % Agree or Strongly agree 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022
18 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS -6% -16% -6% -8% -6% -12% -8% -11% -4% -8% -15% -14% -11% -19% -8% -15% -68% -68% -63% -62% -76% -75% 77% 67% 82% 80% 79% 71% 75% 72% 77% 71% 70% 69% 67% 63% 71% 66% 15% 13% 14% 16% 9% 11% % Unlikely / Very unlikely % Likely / Very likely Peer Norms When comparing 2022 and 2025 data, student perceptions of peer attitudes around sexual and dating violence have remained largely consistent. In both years, most participants reported that their friends would disapprove or strongly disapprove of behaviors such as using alcohol or drugs to obtain sex, lying for sexual purposes, or using physical force in a dating context. One area showing little change and continued ambiguity is peer approval of telling stories about sexual experiences. In both years, responses were mixed. The lack of clarity likely stems from the question wording, which did not specify whether these were positive, consensual experiences or negative, harmful ones. Therefore, a need for continued education on respectful communication about sexual experiences and boundaries. Perceptions of Campus Climate Questions about anticipated response at Northern to an instance of sexual misconduct The following statements describe how Northern might handle it if a student reported an incident of sexual misconduct. Please indicate the likelihood of each statement: The institution would take the report seriously. The institution would maintain the privacy of the person making the report. The institution would do its best to honor the request of the person about how to go forward with the case. The institution would take steps to protect the safety of the person making the report. The institution would support the person making the report. The institution would provide accommodations to support the person (e.g., academic, housing, safety). The institution would take action to address factors that may have led to the sexual misconduct. The institution would handle the report fairly. The institution would label the person making the report a troublemaker. The institution would have a hard time supporting the person who made the report. The institution would punish the person who made the report. 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 -6% -16% -6% -8% -6% -12% -8% -11% -4% -8% -15% -14% -11% -19% -8% -15% -68% -68% -63% -62% -76% -75% 77% 67% 82% 80% 79% 71% 75% 72% 77% 71% 70% 69% 67% 63% 71% 66% 15% 13% 14% 16% 9% 11% % Unlikely / Very unlikely % Likely / Very likely
19 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS 5Sexual misconduct was defined as physical contact or non-physical conduct of a sexual nature in the absence of clear, knowing and voluntary consent. Examples include sexual or gender-based harassment, stalking, dating violence, and sexual violence. Perceptions of Campus Climate Overall, perceptions of Northern’s institutional response to sexual misconduct improved between 2022 and 2025. In 2025, 77% of students believed the university would take a report of sexual misconduct seriously which is a 10% increase from 2022. Confidence in Northern’s ability to provide accommodations, honor a reporter’s wishes, and respond appropriately also rose during this period. In 2025, 14% of participants believed the institution would have difficulty supporting the person making a report, a slight improvement from 16% in 2022. Additionally, some students still expressed apprehension about potential retaliation and remained uncertain about the university’s ability to address systemic factors that contribute to misconduct. These results point to steady progress in building institutional trust, while emphasizing the need for continued work to eliminate fears of retaliation and strengthen prevention efforts. -76% -67% -74% -75% -58% -47% 4% 9% 9% 7% 11% 17% % Disagree or Strongly disagree % Agree or Strongly agree Students would label the person making the report a troublemaker. Students would have a hard time supporting the person who made the report. The alleged offender(s) or their friends would try to get back at the person making the report. 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 If someone were to report a case of sexual misconduct to Northern:
20 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Peer Responses The following is a list of reactions that people sometimes have when responding to a person who has experienced sexual misconduct. If you experienced sexual misconduct and you told your friends/peers, how would they respond? Help you get information of any kind about coping with the experience. Provide information and discussed options. Comfort you by telling you it would be all right or by holding you. Reassure you that you are a good person. Make you feel like you didn’t know how to take care of yourself. Treat you as if you were a child or somehow incompetent. Avoid talking to you or spending time with you. Tell you that you could have done more to prevent this experience from occurring. Treat you differently in some way than before you told them that made you uncomfortable. Tell you that you were irresponsible or not cautious enough. 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 -89% -90% -88% -93% -87% -88% -94% -90% -92% -96% -92% -97% 2% 1% 3% 1% 3% 2% 0% 4% 2% 1% 2% 1% % Never / Rarely % Frequently /Always -15% -8% -22% -19% -26% -19% -26% -18% 77% 84% 61% 70% 49% 60% 52% 67% % Never / Rarely % Frequently /Always
21 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Knowledge of Resources Using the scale provided, please indicate the degree to which you agree or disagree with the following statements: Peer Responses Participants were asked how they believed their friends would respond if they disclosed an experience of sexual misconduct. From 2022 to 2025, perceptions of peer support improved across several measures. The most notable increases were in peers “helping you get information about coping with the experience,” which rose by 15%, and “providing information and discussing options,” which increased by 11%. These gains suggest that more students now feel equipped to offer not just emotional support, but also practical guidance. This improvement aligns with institutional efforts to highlight available resources early in students’ college careers through programs such as HOWL, Wolfpack Welcome, classroom presentations, and student training. By introducing resource awareness during students’ first year, Northern has strengthened the capacity of peers to connect each other with the help they need. Please use the following scale to indicate how aware you are of the function of the campus and community resources specifically related to sexual misconduct response at Northern listed below: -12% -34% -20% -41% -18% -43% 73% 49% 57% 39% 67% 43% 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 If a friend or I experienced sexual misconduct, I know where to go to get help on campus. I understand what happens when a student reports a claim of sexual misconduct at Northern. I would know where to go to make a report of sexual misconduct. Office of Student Conduct Title IX Compliance Counseling Services Safe Harbor Health Services 13% 21% 3% 13% 1% 3% 6% 24% 2% 4% 17% 28% 8% 21% 1% 8% 11% 21% 14% 10% 38% 29% 30% 28% 19% 22% 25% 30% 26% 23% 20% 14% 34% 23% 51% 40% 30% 14% 38% 38% 12% 9% 25% 14% 29% 27% 28% 11% 20% 25% % Not at all aware % Slightly aware % Somewhat aware % Very aware % Extremely aware 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 -89% -90% -88% -93% -87% -88% -94% -90% -92% -96% -92% -97% 2% 1% 3% 1% 3% 2% 0% 4% 2% 1% 2% 1% % Never / Rarely % Frequently /Always
22 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Participants were asked to rate their agreement with statements about their awareness of campus resources related to sexual misconduct. In 2025, 73% of respondents reported knowing where to seek help on campus if they or a friend experienced sexual misconduct. This was a significant increase from 2022, up 24%. Understanding of the reporting process also improved notably. Compared to 2022, there was an 18% increase in students who understood what happens after a report is made, and a 24% increase in those who knew where to file a report. When viewed alongside the Peer Responses data, these results indicate that students in 2025 are not only more aware of available resources, but also better informed about the steps to take when seeking support. This progress reflects targeted communication and outreach efforts over the past three years, aimed at equipping students with the knowledge and confidence to access help when needed. Consent Using the scale provided, please indicate the degree to which you agree or disagree with the following statements: Consent must be given at each step in a sexual encounter. If a person initiates sex, but during foreplay says they no longer want to, the person has not given consent to continue. If a person doesn’t physically resist sex, they have given consent. Consent for sex one time is consent for future sex. If you and your sexual partner are both drunk, you don’t have to worry about consent. Mixed signals can sometimes mean consent. If someone invites you to their place, they are giving consent for sex. -1% -2% -4% -3% -89% -92% -99% -97% -95% -95% -90% -96% -99% -98% 99% 93% 95% 96% 2% 2% 1% 2% 0% 0% 5% 0% 0% 0% % Disagree or Strongly disagree % Agree or Strongly agree 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 -89% -90% -88% -93% -87% -88% -94% -90% -92% -96% -92% -97% 2% 1% 3% 1% 3% 2% 0% 4% 2% 1% 2% 1% % Never / Rarely % Frequently /Always
23 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Consent Participants were asked about their agreement with statements regarding consent. Results from both 2022 and 2025 show a consistently strong understanding of core consent principles, with over 90% of respondents in both years affirming that: • Consent must be given at each step of a sexual encounter • Consent can be withdrawn at any time • Incapacitation due to drugs or alcohol negates the ability to consent While these findings are encouraging, some misconceptions remain unchanged between 2022 and 2025. A small percentage of students in both years agreed with myths such as “mixed signals can mean consent.” These lingering beliefs underscore the need to reinforce affirmative, enthusiastic consent education for all students. South Dakota Board of Regents Policy 1.4.2 defines consent as outlined above. Additionally, the State of South Dakota’s House Bill 1287 defines consent as “a person’s positive cooperation in act or attitude pursuant to the person’s exercise of free will.” Training Regarding Sexual Misconduct Using the scale provided, please indicate the degree to which you agree or disagree with the following statements: Before coming to Northern, had you received any information or education (that did not come from Northern) about sexual misconduct? The definitions of types of sexual misconduct How to report an incident of sexual misconduct Where to go to get help if someone you know experiences sexual misconduct Title IX protections against sexual misconduct How to help prevent sexual misconduct Student code of conduct or honor code 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 32% 26% 68% 74% No Yes Since coming to Northern, have you received written (e.g., brochures, emails) or verbal information (e.g., presentations, training) from anyone at Northern about the following? 2025 2022 63% 46% 54% 39% 58% 40% 75% 64% 56% 45% 56% 55%
STUDENT AFFAIRS 24 ANNUAL REPORT Discussed sexual misconduct/rape in class Discussed the topic of sexual misconduct with friends Discussed sexual misconduct with a family member Attended an event or program about what you can do as a bystander to stop sexual misconduct Attended a rally or other campus event about sexual misconduct or sexual assault Seen posters about sexual misconduct (e.g., raising awareness, preventing rape, defining sexual misconduct) Seen or heard campus administrators or staff address sexual misconduct Seen crime alerts about sexual misconduct Read a report about sexual violence rates at Northern Visited a Northern website with information on sexual misconduct Volunteered or interned at an organization that addresses sexual misconduct Seen or heard about sexual misconduct in a student publication or media outlet Taken a class to learn more about sexual misconduct 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 31% 22% 44% 50% 25% 24% 37% 23% 7% 6% 55% 58% 33% 23% 67% 34% 28% 9% 17% 12% 4% 1% 28% 26% 5% 6% 2025 2022 Training Regarding Sexual Misconduct Since coming to Northern, which of the following have you done?
25 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Training Regarding Sexual Misconduct Participants were asked about their sexual misconduct training prior to attending Northern as well as their exposure to sexual misconduct topics and resources since enrolling. Approximately 68% of participants reported receiving some form of training on sexual misconduct before coming to campus, a slight decrease from 74% in 2022. However, there was a notable increase in participants’ understanding of key concepts such as the definitions of sexual misconduct (up 17%), how to report an incident (up 15%), where to seek help (up 18%), Title IX protections (up 11%), and strategies for prevention (up 11%). These positive changes reflect the progress made since 2022 in educating the campus community about Title IX and available reporting and support options. Additionally, since arriving at Northern, students reported increased exposure to educational efforts related to sexual misconduct, including classroom discussions, bystander intervention events, campus posters, informational reports, and crime alerts. While these topics can be challenging to discuss, fostering open dialogue and awareness is essential. Encouraging students to engage in discussions, recognize educational materials on campus, and review reports not only promotes understanding but also reinforces the message that responsibility lies solely with the perpetrator and highlights where to access support both on and off campus.
26 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Walked a friend who has had too much to drink home from a party, bar, or other social event. Talked to the friends of a drunk person to make sure they don’t leave him/her behind at a party, bar, or other social event. Spoke up against sexist jokes. Tried to distract someone who was trying to take a drunk person to another room or trying to get them to do something sexual. Ask someone who looks very upset at a party if they are okay or need help. Intervene with a friend who was being physically abusive to another person. Intervene with a friend who was being verbally abusive to another person. Bystander Intervention Questions about bystander actions When the following situations arose at Northern, how often did you do any of the following? Bystander Intervention Participants were asked about their reactions to specific situations they may have encountered at Northern. It is important to note that not all participants responded to every question; therefore, the percentage of respondents for each item is documented on the right for reference. Please note that in the chart, 2025 data are displayed beneath the 2022 data for comparison. Since 2022, there has been a noticeable decrease in students’ reported likelihood of intervening in certain situations. This decline may partially reflect that some students have not encountered these situations at Northern and therefore indicated they would not have intervened. Nonetheless, overall responses suggest students are less likely to intervene in certain circumstances. The most significant change was a 15% increase in students reporting they would not intervene if a friend was being verbally abusive toward another person. 79% 59% 78% 58% 78% 61% 61% 51% 73% 58% 59% 52% 66% 56% -46% -31% -27% -24% -31% -45% -55% -50% -37% -24% -32% -36% -22% -33% 33% 44% 44% 60% 39% 34% 29% 35% 46% 52% 45% 51% 46% 50% -1 0 % -8 0% -6 0% -4 0% -2 0% 0 % 2 0% 4 0% 6 0% 8 0% 1 0 % 0 % 1 0% 2 0% 3 0% 4 0% 5 0% 6 0% 7 0% 8 0% 9 0% % Answering % Never / Rarely % Most of thetime / Always 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025
27 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Sexual Harassment by Faculty, Instructor or Staff Member Questions about instances of sexual harassment at Northern Since you enrolled at Northern, have you been in a situation in which a faculty member, instructor or staff member: Treated you “differently” because of your sex (for example, mistreated, slighted, or ignored you)? Displayed, used, or distributed sexist or suggestive materials (for example, pictures, stories, or pornography which you found offensive)? Made offensive sexist remarks (for example, suggesting that people of your sex are not suited for the kind of work you do)? Put you down or was condescending to you because of your sex? Repeatedly told sexual stories or jokes that were offensive to you? Made unwelcome attempts to draw you into a discussion of sexual matters (for example, attempted to discuss/comment on your sex life)? Made offensive sexist remarks about your appearance, body, or sexual activities? Made gestures or used body language of a sexual nature which embarrassed or offended you? Made unwanted attempts to establish a romantic sexual relationship with you despite your efforts to discourage it? Continued to ask you for dates, drinks, dinner, etc., even though you said “No”? Touched you in a way that made you feel uncomfortable? Made unwanted attempts to stroke, fondle, or kiss you? Made you feel like you were being bribed with some sort of reward or special treatment to engage in sexual behavior? Made you feel threatened with some sort of retaliation for not being sexually cooperative (for example, by mentioning an upcoming review)? Treated you badly for refusing to have sex? Implied better treatment if you were sexually cooperative -80% -83% -91% -92% -82% -87% -90% -92% -92% -95% -96% -97% -88% -89% -97% -93% -100% -97% -100% -98% -98% -98% -100% -99% -100% -99% -100% -99% -99% -99% -99% -99% 20% 17% 9% 8% 18% 13% 10% 8% 8% 5% 4% 3% 12% 11% 3% 7% 0% 3% 0% 2% 2% 2% 0% 1% 0% 1% 0% 1% 1% 1% 1% 1% % Never % One or more times 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022 2025 2022
28 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Gender of involved parties: Incident location: The situation involved: Reaction to incident: Sexual Harassment by Faculty, Instructor or Staff Member (2025) Follow-Up Questions about instances of sexual harassment at Northern Respondents that indicated an instance of sexual harassment by a faculty member, instructor, or staff member were asked a series of follow-up questions. Think about the instances of sexual harassment by a faculty member, instructor, or staff member that happened to you that you marked on a prior screen. Now think about the ONE SITUATION that had the greatest effect on you and answer the following questions. 13% 75% 88% 13%13% Survey participant Perpetrator Male % Female % Other % The perpetrator was: 5 1 1 Faculty member Staff member Other 86% 14% % On campus % Off campus 38% 0% 25% 13% Sexist or sexually offensive language, gestures or pictures Unwanted sexual attention Unwanted touching Subtle or explicit bribes or threats 25% 50% 0% 25% 25% 38% I ignored the person and did nothing I avoided the person as much as possible. I treated it like a joke. I told the person to stop. I reported the person. I asked someone for advice and/or support.
29 2025 ARC3 SURVEY FINDINGS Sexual Harassment by Faculty, Instructor or Staff Member Participants were asked a series of questions about their experiences with faculty members, instructors, or staff members since enrolling at Northern. The majority of responses indicate that participants never had negative situations regarding sexual harassment. However, the same concerns from 2022 where prevalent where participants indicated that faculty, instructors, or staff on one or more occasion treated them “differently” because of their sex (all genders) as well as made offensive sexist remarks to include gender norms and appearance. Both of these areas increased by 3% and 5%, respectively. For individuals who indicated that they have experienced sexual harassment by a faculty member, instructor, or staff were given follow up questions. Due to the low responses to this question, we provided the results; however, less than ten students were captured that voluntarily provided additional information.
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