UT Martin Access & Engagement

YSA 2026 was one for the books! ☀️

Our department worked hard to scout the best and brightest juniors and seniors from across the state to bring them to our great campus and teach them all things college readiness. With help from faculty and staff across all kinds of subjects— including psychology, anatomy & physiology, leadership, business, and agriculture— our 30 campers got a feel of what college can be for them when they get here! 😉💙🧡

Spreading awareness on 💙

⭐️ History of Denim Day ⭐️

originated in 1999 as a campaign to raise awareness about sexual violence and support survivors. It was established by , a nonprofit organization, in response to a controversial court case in Italy. In 1992, an 18-year-old woman was sexually assaulted by her 45-year-old driving instructor. Although the perpetrator was initially convicted, the Italian Supreme Court overturned the ruling in 1998, arguing that because the victim was wearing tight jeans, she must have helped remove them, thereby implying consent.

The verdict sparked outrage worldwide, particularly among women’s rights activists. In protest, female members of the Italian Parliament wore jeans to work, igniting a movement that soon spread globally. Inspired by this act of solidarity, Peace Over Violence declared the last Wednesday of April as Denim Day, urging people to wear denim to challenge misconceptions about sexual violence and to support survivors.

Today, National Denim Day is recognized internationally as a powerful statement against victim-blaming and a call to action for education, advocacy, and systemic change. The campaign continues to promote awareness, prevention, and support for survivors of sexual violence, emphasizing that clothing is never an invitation to assault.

Our team loved meeting so many of you today 🩵 and big s/o to Michael Reid from for showing up for students during this meaningful month!

⭐️TOMORROW⭐️
It’s time for money mind$set part 2: mortgage edition! Thinking about buying a home? Worried about all misunderstanding all the loan talk? Come see us! Lunch & door prizes provided 🏠💲

See y’all tomorrow as Dr. Ostenson leads us through some practical tips on being present— even when our lives or circumstances are challenging 🫂

In honor of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), we’ll be tabling in the UC to share information and resources that our Title IX office offers to all UTM students.

On April 22, we will honor SAAM survivors as we deck out in denim and have a sweet treat before class!

National Denim Day is recognized internationally as a powerful statement against victim-blaming and a call to action for education, advocacy, and systemic change. The campaign continues to promote awareness, prevention, and support and emphasizes that clothing is never an invitation to assault. 🩵

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) — a time to raise awareness, support survivors, and foster a culture of respect and prevention on our campus.

Throughout the month, the Title IX office will continue hosting various events and initiatives to engage, educate, and empower our UTM community. Be on the lookout for signs around campus and stop by to chat with us at our tabling event on April 15th!

Join us for lunch this Wednesday and leave with some good info and action steps for this year’s 🩵