ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø

Skip to main content

Meet Bridgette

Victim Advocate and Coordinator of Veteran Student Services

Education

2022 Colorado Technical University, B.S. in Criminal Justice with a Concentration in Homeland Security and Emergency Management
2024ÌýColorado Technical University, M.S. in Criminal Justice

Career Specialties

Bridgette Shipley specializes in victim advocacy, crisis response and violence prevention education. At the University of Tampa, she serves as both the victim advocate and coordinator of veteran student services. In her advocacy role, she provides confidential support to students impacted by trauma, victimization and crime, helping them navigate complex emotional and institutional systems. Her work focuses on cases involving sexual violence, intimate partner violence, stalking and other crimes.

In her role supporting veteran and military-affiliated students,ÌýShipley ensures that veteran, reserve and active-duty students have access to resources, community and support. She also develops and leads programming to strengthen connection and recognition within the ÌÒñ«ÉçÇøampa veteran community.

Professional and Community ActivitiesÌý

ShipleyÌýleads the University of Tampa’s Violence Prevention and Education Committee (VPEC), coordinating campus-wide education, outreach and prevention initiatives. She also leads the Veteran and Military Program Services Advisory Group as well as serves on the ÌÒñ«ÉçÇøampa Hazing Prevention Team, promoting student safety and well-being. As a certified R.A.D. (Rape Aggression Defense) Instructor, she regularly facilitates self-defense courses designed to empower women in the ÌÒñ«ÉçÇøampa community.

Beyond campus,ÌýShipley is an active member of the Hillsborough County Domestic Violence Task Force and the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART), working collaboratively with community partners to strengthen coordinated care for survivors. She also serves nationally on the Puzzles Conference Advisory Committee (2024 and 2025), shaping discussions around trauma recovery and victim services in higher education. Additionally, she is a member of the National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA), ensuring her practice reflects current best practices in the field.