October 6, 2020
Wichita State University’s Center for Combatting Human Trafficking has decided to close its doors this month. University budgetary decisions dating back to FY 2018 to transition service-based community centers to a self-supporting financial model contributed to the Center’s decision to close. The Center’s Executive Director, Dr. Karen Countryman-Roswurm, will remain at the university as a full-time tenured faculty member.
The university is proud of the work that the Center has done in the community and beyond to combat human trafficking. The university has been made aware of a similar business entity organized by Dr. Countryman-Roswurm to continue in those efforts independent from the university. As a state entity, the university must comply with state and federal laws in any ongoing support of a private organization, including transfer of funds, or donation of furniture or equipment. Further, as part of the transition, the university is working with Dr. Countryman-Roswurm on an agreement to relinquish its intellectual property rights in the Center’s Lotus Anti-Trafficking Model™ to support her future endeavors in this very important and impactful work.
The university will continue to support students who have tragically been victimized by human trafficking through education, training, counseling, prevention and crisis assistance. More information on university counseling and prevention services can be found at wichita.edu/counselingtesting.
To find out how you can make an impact on specific programs, departments or initiatives, please reach out to the Wichita State University Foundation at foundation@wichita.edu or https://foundation.wichita.edu/contact.