Students learn self-defense in Rape Aggression Defense class

Empowering young women with the skills and knowledge they need to protect themselves in the event of an attack, Alfred State recently held its first Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) class.

The course was hosted by the University Police Department and taught by Officer Corwin Mackney and Campus Public Safety Officer Jennifer Chiaino, both of whom are nationally certified RAD instructors.

The RAD class is a comprehensive, women-only course that focuses on self-awareness, prevention, risk reduction, and risk avoidance, while progressing on to the basics of hands-on defense training. The course includes educational components composed of lecture, discussion, and physical resistance strategies. The goal of the program is to develop and enhance a woman's options for self-defense, giving her viable options if she is ever attacked.

Students learned by participating in a series of hands-on, realistic, self-defense tactics and reinforcing the power of the voice. RAD is not a martial arts program. This course was split into two- and three-hour sessions held over a six-week period, which provided flexibility for the busy college students.

Mackney said, “This was a great first RAD program for Alfred State. We enjoyed working with the women to educate them and teach them a variety of self-defense techniques. They were all very receptive to what the instructors had to say. I was pleased that the students learned the techniques we were teaching, but also had fun in the process. The students began the class as individuals, but ended as friends, and that was great to see.”

Alfred State Chief of Police Matthew Heller said Mackney and Chiaino expressed interest in bringing a RAD program to Alfred State more than a year ago.

“They have both invested time and resources into this initial RAD course and are looking forward to building upon it,” he said. “As the program moves forward they would like to see a mix of Alfred State, Alfred University, and local community members in the classes. Corwin and Jennifer both have a genuine interest in the safety of the young women on our campuses and in our communities.”

Lauren Marzolf, a veterinary technology major from Lansing, said the instructors were able to cover “a very touchy subject” and make the class very enjoyable.

“The class challenged me a bit, but it taught me that there were a lot of things I could do physically and mentally,” she said. “I enjoyed the class very much, and I met a new group of friends. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a self-defense course or just wanting something to do for a few hours every few weeks.”

Morgan Sliker, a forensic science technology student from Dansville, said, “I really enjoyed learning these techniques and it makes me feel much safer knowing I have these tools for future reference. I had a ton of fun in this course, the instructors were incredible and encouraging, and I would love to continue with training or come back in the future. I definitely recommend RAD to other women. It is better to be safe than sorry and some extra skills on how to protect yourself are always a good idea.”

Emily Stilson, a diagnostic medical sonography major from Canisteo, said the course was extremely valuable to her and is great for all ages.

“The techniques were simple and easy to remember; perfect for an emergency situation,” she said. “I truly think that everyone should take the course. They won’t regret it.”

Upon completion, the students received a workbook/reference manual. The manual outlines the entire program for reference and continuous personal growth.

Participants who complete the program are eligible for RAD Systems' Lifetime Return and Practice Policy, allowing them free acceptance to any class held in the United States or Canada for additional practice and education. This program is a great opportunity for women of all skill levels.

The University Police Department will be conducting another free RAD class during the spring semester. Although this class was composed of all Alfred State students, Mackney encourages any women interested in future classes to contact him for information at macknecj@alfredstate.edu.