Debra L. Cain, who joined the University Sept. 1 as the new coordinator of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Center (SAPAC) brings 14 years of experience with the issues of sexual assault and domestic violence to the post.
Since 1977 she has been the executive director of HAVEN, a non-profit agency that deals with sexual abuse and domestic violence in Pontiac. In that position, she developed, implemented and administered a variety of programs, including 24-hour crisis phone lines, emergency shelter, both crisis intervention and long-term counseling, first response and court advocacy services, and a number of prevention and education programs.
Cain was drawn to the SAPAC post because of the “opportunity to work at the University, with its outstanding facilities and programs. I believe in the work of SAPAC,” she says, “and am excited about planning for a strong future for the program.”
Cain believes that the issue of sexual assault is a “young” issue, one that is just starting to get serious attention nationwide, and says there is potential for new elements.
Dean of Student Affairs Royster Harper is “impressed by Cain’s extensive background—she’s number one or two in the state in this area—and her work with public safety organizations. What impressed me most, however, is that Debra envisions a world without rape.
“She wants to focus on prevention so that when students leave here they will not participate in sexual assault. From generation to generation, things will get better.”
Cain will spend the fall term learning all she can about the program, which she describes as a strong one. “This is a different environment for me and there’s lots to learn. I love the atmosphere of the campus, with its energy and creativity.”
Cain will report to Delories Sloan, the newly appointed associate dean for student affairs-counseling, and is “excited and enthusiastic about being part of this new team that will take student affairs into the future.”
Cain holds a B.S. in psychology/political science from Iowa State University and an M.S. in administration from Central Michigan University.
She is on the board of directors of the Southeast Michigan Anti-Rape Network, past president and current member of the United Way Executives Association and founding member and past treasurer of the Michigan Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
