Connect with Faculty Featuring Dr. Rachel Lovell, Presenting: The Problem of Untested Sexual Assault Kits and Gender Differences in Those Seeking Assistance Post Assault

Abstract

Connect with CSU Faculty Featuring: Rachel E. Lovell, PhD, Associate Professor of Criminology and Director of the Criminology Research Center Levin College of Public Affairs and Education Cleveland State University Presenting: The Problem of Untested Sexual Assault Kits and Gender Differences in Those Seeking Assistance Post Assault Tuesday, November 4, 2025 11:30 am – 12:30 p.m. Location: Michael Schwartz Library 1st floor, Connection Lounge Dr. Lovell will provide an overview of the problem of untested sexual assault kits—why there were so many untested sexual assault kits, what is being done to address this issue, and provide suggestions for moving forward. Additionally, the presentation will detail findings from two recently published studies detailing gender differences in those who seek sexual assault kit exams post-sexual assault. About Dr. Lovell Rachel E. Lovell, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Criminology and Director of the Criminology Research Center at the Levin College of Public Affairs and Education at Cleveland State University in Cleveland, Ohio. A criminologist and methodologist, she specializes in applied research and evaluation, collaborating closely with criminal justice agencies, community organizations, and public and social service systems. Her work focuses on issues including sexual assault, sexual assault kits, human trafficking, intimate partner violence, and gun violence. An accomplished scholar, Dr. Lovell has secured over $7 million in external funding since 2013, published numerous peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, and recently served as lead editor of the monograph Sexual Assault Kits and Reforming the Response to Rape. This is a free event open to CSU faculty, staff, and students; Friends of the Library; and CSU Alumni