Bystander Intervention Becomes a Talking Point for Goldey-Beacom Athletics

General | 2/26/2019 12:00:00 AM

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Goldey-Beacom College does not hold classes on Friday, but its student-athletes used that valuable free time on a Friday earlier this year to attend a discussion about bystander intervention practices.

The College welcomed Penn State University Abington Professor Ellen Murray to talk about what students should do if confronted with a perilous situation involving other students. Role playing was involved in the roughly 60-minute session, during which the students acted out scenarios that have taken place at other campuses.

"It was such a pleasure working with GBC student athletes," Professor Murray said. "I am greatly impressed by the commitment of the GBC athletic staff and coaches to develop the leadership potential of their students as they provide education and the skills necessary to make a difference in their community. GBC students were respectful and engaging. Raising their collective consciousness regarding this topic is so important."

Bystander intervention is recognizing a potentially harmful situation or interaction and choosing to respond in a way that could positively influence the outcome. Strategies involved in quelling a potentially harmful situation include directly addressing the scenario, interrupting it and initiating help.

"We always aim to do everything within our power to ensure the health and safety of our student-athletes," Associate Athletic Director Jeremy Benoit added. "This particular activity is intended to empower our student-athletes to take action when they see something that is morally repugnant. As leaders on our campus, they have a high capability of positively impacting a negative situation and we want to encourage them to use that status accordingly."

The discussion is part of Goldey-Beacom's ongoing mission to provide education regarding social responsibility and programs reflecting our institutional commitment to promote a culture of civility and respect. Student-athletes on all college campuses are valued leaders who can make a difference at their institution.

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