Frankel highlights impact of “It’s On Us” grants to local universities
Rep. Dan B. Frankel March 17, 2026 | 4:37 PM
PITTSBURGH, March 17 – State Rep. Dan Frankel today celebrated new “It’s On Us PA” grants awarded to colleges and universities across the commonwealth, including three institutions in his legislative district, building on legislation he helped author to combat campus sexual violence and support survivors.
The latest round of funding includes:
- University of Pittsburgh — $43,725
- Chatham University — $40,000
- Carnegie Mellon University — $50,000
“These investments reflect the vision we put into place several years ago — that preventing sexual violence and supporting survivors must be a sustained, statewide priority,” said Frankel, D-Allegheny. “I was proud to help establish this program, and it’s delivering real resources to students and campuses right here in our community.”
The Shapiro Administration awarded more than $1.7 million in this round of funding to 43 institutions statewide. Since 2023, nearly $5 million has been invested in “It’s On Us PA” initiatives focused on education, prevention, and survivor support.
Frankel was a sponsor of one of the original “It’s On Us” bills enacted as part of the 2019 state budget under then-Gov. Tom Wolf, legislation that created Pennsylvania’s framework for addressing campus sexual assault through dedicated funding and coordinated prevention strategies.
“When we passed this legislation in 2019, the goal was to move beyond awareness and into action — to give schools the tools they need to prevent violence and respond effectively when it occurs,” Frankel said. “Seeing these dollars come back to institutions in my district shows how that work continues to make a difference.”
The “It’s On Us PA” program builds on a national initiative launched to raise awareness about sexual assault, promote consent education, and encourage bystander intervention. The state-level campaign brings together educators, students, families, and community leaders to foster safer campus environments.
At the University of Pittsburgh, funding will support an expansion of its “Help is Available” awareness campaign, increasing the visibility of resources across campus, along with self-defense programming and continued access to victim advocacy services.
“This is exactly what we envisioned — practical, on-the-ground efforts that help students stay safe and ensure survivors are supported every step of the way,” Frankel said.
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