SJ Henderson joins Manchester as CARE director

SJ Henderson joined Manchester University this semester as director of the Center for Advocacy, Response, and Education (CARE).

The center provides confidential support and advocacy for survivors of sexual violence, domestic or dating violence, and stalking.

“About seven years ago, I began volunteering at a sexual assault center and have done everything from hospital advocacy to hotline advocacy to outreach work and administrative work. I came to Manchester University because I wanted to help guide the CARE program and make sure that the students here are aware of their resources as it pertains to sexual assault and domestic violence,” she said.

 Just as important, she wanted an opportunity to talk to students about proactive approaches, such as what healthy relationships look like, bystander intervention and self-love.

“I do not want CARE to just be a place that students come to after they have been violated, but a safe space for any student to come to as they continue a lifelong journey of getting to know their own bodies and emotional architecture,” she said.

Henderson recently graduated from the University of Georgia with a Master of Social Work and a Master of Public Health. 

At Manchester, Henderson coordinates a community response team, develops educational programs for CARE, and develops training programs for University employees who might respond to a report.

Because Manchester has campuses in Fort Wayne and North Manchester, she also works closely with community resources, such as Hands of Hope in Wabash, the Fort Wayne Sexual Assault Center and the FWPD Victim Assistance Program. 

For the media
CARE details and contact information

Our mission
Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition.

Manchester University, with campuses in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., provides vibrant and transformative student experiences. Learn more at www.manchester.edu/about-manchester.

March 2021