Bison Intervention Team (BIT)

Mission

The mission of the Bison Intervention Team (BIT) is to foster a safe, supportive campus environment at Howard University by proactively identifying, assessing, and addressing the needs of students facing challenges that may impact their academic success, personal well-being, or campus community engagement. Through collaborative efforts with various campus departments, BIT provides coordinated support, resources, and interventions that empower students to overcome obstacles, maintain their safety and wellness, and achieve their educational and personal goals.

Purpose

The purpose of the BIT is to serve as a centralized, collaborative resource focused on early identification and intervention for students experiencing academic, emotional, or personal challenges. BIT provides structured support by assessing individual cases, coordinating university resources, and implementing tailored action plans to address concerns impacting a student’s well-being and success. The team strives to prevent crises before they arise, promote a safe and inclusive campus environment, and guide students toward the resources and support systems necessary for their personal and academic growth.

Responsibilities

The BIT is responsible for identifying, assessing, and managing risks posed by students or individuals who may exhibit concerning behaviors that could impact their well-being or the safety of the campus community. Here are the primary responsibilities of a BIT:

· Identifying Concerning Behavior: BIT members gather and evaluate reports on individuals showing signs of distress or exhibiting behaviors that might indicate a risk to themselves or others. These signs may include changes in mood, withdrawal, aggressive behavior, or threats of harm.

· Assessing Risk and Threat Levels: The team assesses the level of threat based on observed behaviors, reports from the community, and information from professionals such as mental health counselors. BIT members often use structured risk assessment tools to guide their evaluations.

· Intervening and Providing Support: BIT collaborates with other departments, like counseling services, accessibility services, and student affairs, to provide support to individuals in need. They may recommend counseling, academic accommodations, or other interventions to help the individual stabilize and succeed.

· Developing Safety Plans: If a situation poses a significant risk, BIT may develop individualized safety plans, which could include campus restrictions, wellness checks, or referrals to external resources, such as crisis centers or hospitals.

· Coordinating with Key Stakeholders: BIT often collaborates with campus safety, housing, counseling, legal affairs, and other departments to ensure a cohesive response to behavioral concerns.

· Follow-Up and Monitoring: After an intervention, BIT may continue to monitor the individual’s progress and adjust support, as necessary. Regular follow-up can help prevent future incidents and support the individual’s long-term success.

· Training and Education: BIT also plays a role in educating the campus community on recognizing and reporting concerning behaviors, ensuring that faculty, staff, and students are aware of BIT processes and resources.

BITs aim to create a safer, supportive environment by proactively addressing potential issues before they escalate. This team approach to intervention ensures that individuals get the assistance they need while maintaining the safety and stability of the broader campus community.