Honoring twelve men from the University community who were selected as role models for their positive impact on women, women’s rights, and for taking a stand against violence towards women, the 2009 “Real Men of MSU” campaign kicked off on February 26 at a ceremony in the Courtyard Lounge of University Hall. Sponsored by the Center for Non Violence and Peace Initiatives (CNVPI), the campaign aims to raise awareness of women’s issues and to help end violence against women on campus.

The ceremony also served as the occasion for the unveiling of the popular “Real Men of MSU” calendar which features the photos and stories of the twelve honorees. “This year we have an incredible group of men who were nominated by the community,” said Jhon Velasco, director of the CNVPI. “Among them are RAs, athletes, professors, law enforcement officers, and administrators.”

Over the course of the year, the men, all of whom work for or attend Montclair State, serve as spokespeople for the campaign and for the cause of ending violence against women. “We are extremely excited to have been able to continue with this campaign,” said Velasco. “We’re also excited that the campaign has gained national attention as many colleges and universities around the country are using it as a model to create similar campaigns on their own campuses.”

Begun in 2005 to serve as a vehicle to help create a safe learning, working and living environment based on equality, respect and freedom from all forms of violence, the CNVPI works collaboratively with faculty, staff and students towards these goals. CNVPI is the only center of its kind in the state of New Jersey and demonstrates Montclair State University’s commitment to non violence, peace initiatives and student activism.

The 2009 “Real Men of MSU” calendar is available at no charge to members of the University community. Those who would like a calendar may pick one up at the CNVPI, Student Center, 2nd floor, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday - Friday.