The university announced last week that the newly created, but vacant position of Coordinator of Sexual Assault Services has been filled, marking a milestone in Northeastern history.

Laura Weiss, a certified Rape Crisis Counselor, with a master’s degree in social work from Columbia University, and a minor in law, will be the first person to fill this debated post.

Though discussions about creating such a position and expanding sexual assault services stretch back to 1996, the issue came to the forefront last spring when Michael Romano, then executive vice president of the Student Government Association, demanded that someone take notice of the issue of sexual assault and rape on campus.

Weiss said she was aware of the controversy surrounding the creation of the position this summer, and was impressed with the dedication to the issue made by students. But more importantly, she said she’s excited to be a part of the university.

“I’m thrilled to be here, I’m really excited. I think the timing of this new position being created is an immense opportunity for me and for the school,” Weiss said. “I’m so excited, just to be here. I can’t wipe the smile off of my face. This is great, for the fact that there is no template in place for Northeastern presents certain challenges, but also allows for a lot of creativity and innovation.”

The Director of the Center of Counseling and Student Development at Northeastern Ed Hattauer, who Weiss will report directly to, said this is something he has been looking forward to since 1996.

“I feel a sense of satisfaction because there is a need that has been identified and that we have been able to move forward on, and there is also a sense of appreciation for students, the student government and for people like Lisa Sinclair in University Counsel that have [pushed for the position],” Hattauer said. “There is also a sense of a community coming together, and that’s a good feeling.”

Romano said he is encouraged by Weiss’ experience, but is still wary of the overall impact this position will have on the university.

“I am cautiously optimistic about the future but also mindful that real change has to resonate within the campus culture, a change that no doubt will take time and persistence to achieve,” he said. “Sexual assault isn’t any less of a problem because we have a new professional on campus, we will need a consistent and committed effort from multiple resources on campus to address this issue with action.”

But Hattauer warned that the university should be patient.

“We can’t do everything at once, but we do have an opportunity to build some momentum,” he said.

Weiss said she is open to suggestions and that she wants to remain available to all members of the community. Her office is located within the counseling center on the third floor of Ell Hall.

“I don’t think I come off as a stiff suit. But I’m really interested in just meeting student leaders and all the students really. Anyone who is interested in having a voice in this program, I’d like to talk to,” she said. “I welcome any sort of feedback and insight. I think the first few days are going to be meetings and meeting people and kind of assessing the needs of the campus. But any feedback I can get, from anyone; faculty or staff, I would highly appreciate it.”

Interim Vice President for Student Affairs Ed Klotzbier said Romano looked at her resume