Jane Doe is used as a placeholder name for an unknown, unidentified, or anonymous female, depending on the context in which it is used. For most people, Jane Doe is a daughter, sister, friend, partner, roommate, or co-worker. She is all of these identities combined into this one name. Jane Doe is not just a physical person, she is strength, courage, resilience, and bravery.Â
In light of the recent and horrific events that occurred at Cornell University, Jane Doe is a survivor. She has endured a terrible trauma in which she was failed by the very system that is in place to protect her. Her story raises questions about the accountability and responsibility of institutions that people depend on. Cornell is an Ivy League university whose reputation is one of academic excellence, community, and trust; a reputation that makes the failures surrounding this case even more devastating. Â
Jane Doe represents the unseen. She symbolizes the countless people whose stories were never heard, believed or acknowledged. Speaking out is not easy. It requires a great deal of courage and strength to revisit something painful and put that experience into words, and making oneself completely vulnerable to backlash and judgement is undoubtedly and incredibly difficult.Â
Your voice matters and there is power in speaking out. Breaking the silence strengthens the fact that survivors are not just anonymous names or case statistics. They are people whose experiences deserve to be acknowledged and brought justice. If you or a loved one is a Jane Doe, know that you are not alone. There is a vast community of people who stand behind you, to support you, listen to you, and believe you.Â
As students navigate this difficult time, do not hesitate to reach out to our on campus and local resources…
Primary Confidential Resource ProviderÂ
Liz Drexler-Hines
Ciampi-Condron
(508) 793-2302
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
Counseling Center
Free individual psychotherapy, walk in crisis appointments
(508) 793-3363
Chaplain’s Office
Pastoral counseling, including spiritual supportÂ
(508) 793-2448
Relationship Peer Educators (RPEs)
RPEs serve as a confidential, private resource for Holy Cross students. Trained to support, educate, and facilitate discussions on sexual misconduct, consent, and interpersonal violence, they work to prevent campus sexual violence and foster healthy relationships. The program is co-advised by our office and the Office of Title IX and Equal Opportunity.
Pathways for Change (off-campus)
24/7 confidential hotline to talk to a crisis counselor (can also answer general questions/ provide referrals and support.
1 (800) 870-5905