M-POWER Peer Education Network serves the student body at ODU as an educational resource on the issues of sexual & relationship violence. Peer educators engage their fellow students in programs and discussions that promote gender equality and anti-violence. Through its presence and programs on the ODU campus, M-POWER creates spaces for education and change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Apply to be a Peer Educator

Print Version | Online Version

Homecoming Facebook Photo Gallery | Cute or Creepy Presentation 10/18/2012

As an M-POWER Peer Educator you will be required to complete 15 hours of training and present a minimum of 2 presentations to the campus community.

Your role as a peer educator will be to give 45 minute to 1 hour presentations on topics related to healthy relationships, sexual assault and campus safety through the use of interactive activities. As a Peer Educator, you will present to residence halls, sororities and fraternities, athletic groups, and a variety of student organizations. You will also research current statistics and studies in the areas of relationship violence and sexual assault and assist with 1 program during either Relationship Violence Awareness Month (Fall Semester) or Sexual Assault Awareness Month or Women’s History Month (Spring Semester).

Peer Educators are very important people on a college campus, because it has been proven that students will listen to your message and be able to relate to you because you are students. We will train you so that you can make these challenging topics an enlightening experience for all students at ODU. If just one student walks away with a new piece of information, an increased sense of safety and support, or information to help a friend, then you have done your job. You can’t save the world in one hour, but knowledge is contagious!

There are many benefits to being a peer educator. You will develop your public speaking skills, become trained in violence prevention & advocacy, interact with the student community, serve as an important resource for other students, enhance self-efficacy, and build your resume!

Any ODU student! This program welcomes men and women of all ages and backgrounds who are currently enrolled as a student at ODU. Courses in Women’s Studies or courses cross-listed with Women’s Studies and/or a basic understanding of sexual & relationship violence issues is preferred but not required. If you have questions about applying, please call Wendi in the Women’s Center at 683-4109 for more information. Applications: print version | online version. Please submit all applications to the Women's Center by September 12th at 4:00pm.

M-Power presentations are 45-50 minutes in length, led by peer educators and usually involve brief film clips, interactive exercises and discussion. To request a workshop, please complete the presentation request form. If you have any other questions or concerns, please contact Michele Haynam, S.A.F.E. Graduate Assistant, by email at mhaynam@odu.edu or by phone at 757.683.4109.

"Step In & Speak Up" - Be an Empowered Bystander

Have you ever witnessed something going on and wondered how you could help? Do you want to know how to successfully intervene when someone might be in danger? This workshop teaches safe bystander intervention strategies for individuals who want to play an active role in ending sexual and relationship violence.

"Real Men Wanted" - Men's Role in Preventing Sexual & Relationship Violence

The bad news is gender inequality is real and fuels vioence against women. The good news is men can be allies in ending this violence that threatens their loved ones and friends. This workshop teaches men how to support survivors and encourages them to engage in changing the cultural attitudes and behaviors that promote sexual and relationship violence.

"Cute or Creepy?" - Red Flags of Dating Violence & Healthy Relationships

Do you think and endless stream of text messages is cute or creepy? When your partner acts jealous are you flattered or freaked? This workshop teaches students how to identify relationship red flags and the signs of a healthy relationship. It also teaches the basics of conflict resolution and how to help a friend who may be in trouble.