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About Lorraine

Hi, I’m Lorraine Holmes, the Confidential Advocate at Cal State East Bay. My role is to walk alongside you & be in your corner, whatever that looks like for you. Navigating interpersonal violence and its aftermath can feel overwhelming, confusing, and isolating. As your Advocate, my goal is to provide a space where you can be heard without judgement and where your agency is always respected. Unlike most faculty and staff, I am not a responsible employee required to report under Title IX, meaning your story stays with me, with limited exceptions such as immediate risk to self/others, or ongoing child/elder abuse.

“Does this count?”  

One of the most common reasons people hesitate to reach out is the feeling that what they experienced “wasn’t that bad” or doesn’t fit a specific label.  

If you are feeling unsure if what happened counts, please reach out anyway. You don’t need a formal label to deserve support. Whether it was a one-time encounter that left you feeling uncomfortable, a pattern of behavior that feels “off,” or something from your past, my door is open to help you process it on your own terms.  

A Note on Language: While I currently only speak English, I am committed to ensuring all survivors have access to support. If you prefer to communicate in another language, I will work with you to provide a professional, confidential interpreter.  

My Approach to Advocacy 

I am not here to tell you what to do. I am here to provide you with your available options and support you in exploring your goals, so you can make choices that feel right for you. 

Interpersonal violence affects every part of your life. Whether you need help navigating a Title IX investigation, securing academic accommodations, or simply need a safe space to process - I am in your corner. 

I am committed to supporting survivors from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Please let me know if you have any accessibility needs for my services.  

Academic Training & Background  

-B.A. in International Relations, American University 

- (In Progress) M.A. in Restorative Justice Facilitation and Leadership, University of San Diego 

Areas of Focus:  

  • Supporting First Generation Students: Navigating campus systems can be a second hurdle for survivors, I’m here to bridge that gap and provide clear guidance.  
  • The Body’s Wisdom: Understanding how our brains and bodies survive trauma and utilizing healing arts for recovery. 
  • Restorative Justice: I am committed to exploring alternative forms of justice that prioritize healing and accountability.  

Beyond the office, I like to spend my time birding, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, and getting inspired by creative writing and poetry. 

 

A Guiding Quote 

“...you could lift a city / from how long you've spent holding / what's been nearly impossible to hold. / This world needs those who know / how to do that. Those who can find / a tunnel with no light at the end / of it and hold it up like a telescope / to show that the darkness contains / many truths that can bring the light / to its knees...”  -Andrea Gibson