Maclay Juniors Host Sexual Assault Awareness Panel with Legal Experts

In a powerful effort to educate and empower their peers, Maclay School juniors Claire Smith and Blair Bayliss organized a sexual assault awareness panel on April 24, drawing a packed audience of upper school students and faculty.

The event featured an esteemed lineup of speakers including State Attorney Jack Campbell, Chief Assistant State Attorney Georgia Cappleman, and Chief Investigator Jason Newlin. Together, they offered insight into the legal realities of sexual assault, its alarming prevalence—especially among college-aged students—and strategies for prevention and safety.

“As students preparing to enter college, we wanted to bring awareness to an issue that impacts so many lives,” said Claire Smith. “This conversation is long overdue.”

Blair Bayliss added, “We hope that by hearing from these professionals, our classmates understand both the seriousness of the issue and the importance of speaking up.”

Smith and Bayliss were encouraged by the strong turnout, especially since participation was completely optional—a sign, they said, of their peers’ genuine interest in the topic and willingness to engage.

The panel addressed key statistics, real-life case experiences, consent, bystander intervention, and the legal consequences surrounding sexual assault. The speakers encouraged students to be proactive, informed, and supportive of survivors.

Maclay School commended Claire and Blair for their leadership and commitment to promoting awareness and change in the community.