Student Support and Accountability expands services with two new staff members

Student Support and Accountability has welcomed two new staff members to its team, enhancing and expanding the ways in which the office supports students and the Kansas State University community.

Alea Billingsley is the university’s first hazing prevention and conduct coordinator. In her role, Billingsley educates the campus community about hazing, spearheads hazing prevention and awareness initiatives, and serves as a resource for those with questions or concerns.

Billingsley comes to K-State from Pittsburg State University, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and Spanish. With a strong background in prevention education, Billingsley has developed and led programs addressing violence, sexual misconduct and other critical safety concerns, in which she empowered individuals to make informed and responsible decisions.

“I am excited to work with students and campus partners alike to foster a culture of safety, acceptance and responsibility. My goal is to help create a campus where every K-Stater understands the dangers of hazing and feels empowered to take action to prevent it,” said Billingsley.

Corinne Petrik is the new legal services attorney for Student Legal Services. Petrik educates students about their legal rights and responsibilities, assists them in resolving legal issues they are currently facing and equips them with the skills necessary to manage legal situations in the future.

“As a K-State alum, I am honored to return to the university in this new role because I believe every student deserves access to reliable legal information and guidance, and I am passionate about helping students feel empowered when facing unfamiliar legal issues,” said Petrik.

Petrik is a K-State graduate, a Kansas native and a firm believer that everyone should have access to accurate legal information without relying on Google. She earned her undergraduate degree from K-State and a law degree from the University of Kansas School of Law. Prior to her return to K-State, Petrik worked as an attorney in Hays, Manhattan and Salina. She is licensed to practice law in Kansas and Missouri, as well as the U.S. District Court of Kansas.

Both Billingsley and Petrik join Student Support and Accountability’s team of individuals dedicated to guiding students through challenging situations.

As Petrik put it, “If you aren’t sure about whether your situation is actually a legal issue or something else, or simply have no idea where to start, reach out! You don’t have to figure it out alone.”

— Submitted by Morgan Greene