by Jordan Foley, Student Public Relations Writer
With an estimated 50 million people trapped in modern-day slavery worldwide, according to the , human trafficking is a global crisis that also affects every U.S. state. As college students prepare for careers in healthcare, education, social work, ministry and other fields, they are increasingly likely to encounter individuals who are being trafficked or have survived trafficking.
Campus Event Aims to Equip Future Professionals
On Monday, Nov. 10, at 7 p.m., Cedarville University鈥檚 IJM chapter will partner with Mandy Reed, founder of 鈥 a Dayton-based nonprofit that provides refuge and community for survivors of human trafficking 鈥 to host a one-hour human trafficking awareness training session followed by a 30-minute Q&A. The event will be held in room 104 of the Center for Biblical and Theological Studies and is open to all students and the public.
鈥淚t鈥檚 especially important for Cedarville students to be trained to recognize the signs of human trafficking because many of them are preparing for careers where they will directly engage with people in vulnerable situations 鈥 whether in ministry, healthcare, education, social work or business,鈥 said Reed.
Local Chapter Supports Global Mission
IJM partners with local justice systems and community organizations around the world to build safer communities, strengthen legal systems, rescue and restore victims, bring perpetrators to justice and expand protection for vulnerable populations.
Reflecting this mission locally, Cedarville鈥檚 IJM chapter supports the global organization by hosting prayer gatherings, fundraising initiatives, advocacy campaigns and awareness events. Through these efforts, the chapter seeks to educate students about the modern-day realities of slavery and human trafficking and equip them to advocate for those affected in the Dayton region.
Training Focuses on Red Flags, Compassionate Response
During the session, Reed will discuss the implications of trafficking, the scope of the issue locally and globally, key warning signs to identify potential victims and practical ways to provide immediate support and connect survivors with long-term resources. Above all, students will learn how to serve with compassion, following Christ鈥檚 example in caring for those who are suffering.
鈥淏y understanding the realities of trafficking and learning how to identify red flags, students are better equipped to respond with wisdom, compassion and discernment,鈥 said Reed.
Faith and Advocacy at the Core of Dear Dinah
The name of Reed鈥檚 organization, Dear Dinah, comes from Genesis 34, which tells the story of Dinah, Jacob鈥檚 only daughter, who was sexually assaulted by the son of a Hivite prince. Moved by her story, Reed founded the nonprofit to advocate for modern-day Dinahs and to offer a safe place where survivors can heal and rediscover their voices.
鈥淒ear Dinah hopes attendees will recognize their unique role in this fight and feel encouraged and empowered to live out their calling to pursue justice and defend the oppressed,鈥 Reed said.
About Cedarville University
Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers and residential and online programs across arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,265 students, it is among Ohio's largest private universities and is ranked among the nation鈥檚 top five evangelical universities in the Wall Street Journal鈥檚 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at .