The first date rape survivor to speak publicly, Katie Koestner, will share her story with Kent State students Thursday in the Kiva.

Jennie O’Connell, the sexual assault response coordinator for the Kent State Sexual Action Response Team, said Koestner makes her experience relatable for the average student.

“Katie does a phenomenal job saying stuff in a way that resonates with college students,” O’Connell said. “Her experience happened during college, and she’s able to share it in a way that gets students to think about their actions.”

Koestner has appeared on Time Magazine, and HBO made a documentary on her story, according to her website. Koestner has also spoken at more than 1,500 college and school campuses.

“It’s a powerful message, and it’s not just a message to women, but it’s a message to everyone,” O’Connell said.

The free event is set to begin at 7:30 p.m.

Contact Mackenzie Blanton at [email protected].