Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ -- The 108th Wing welcomes Daniella “Dani” Cuje as its new Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC),
Cuje, a licensed social worker, brings an extensive and diverse background in supporting victims of sexual assault. From working with teachers, first responders, and sex workers in the civilian sector to advocating for victims in the Navy, Cuje has dedicated her 27-year career to assisting hundreds of men, women, and children through what many consider a life-altering experience.
“I think it’s such an honor to work with survivors,” Cuje said. “Sexual assault is the most underreported crime, with only about 20% of victims coming forward. So when someone trusts you with their story, that’s important.”
As the SARC, Cuje oversees the day-to-day operations of the 108th Wing’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program and the victim advocates assigned to it. SAPR is the Department of Defense’s (DOD) initiative to prevent sexual assault in the military while implementing policies and standards to support and advocate for victims.
“There are many in the military who don’t fully understand what the SAPR program is,” Cuje explained. “They might say, ‘I went to training but didn’t really absorb the information.’ My job is to make service members feel comfortable and safe with this program.
The SAPR program offers a range of services including education on survivor benefits and assistance with access to military and civilian resources.
"Most importantly, we want to support victims and their right to self-determination," Cuje said. "The SAPR program is here to do what’s best for the victim."
According to the DOD’s annual report to Congress, there were 29,000 reports of unwanted sexual contact in the military 2023. However, independent research conducted by Brown University estimates the actual number to be twice as high, at approximately 73,695 cases. Regardless of differences in data sets or methodologies, these numbers underscore the urgent need to support victims.
“The best words you can say to a survivor are, ‘I believe you,’” Cuje emphasized.
If someone you know has experienced sexual assault:
- Ensure they are safe.
- Let them share their story at their own pace—don’t press them to talk.
- Offer support
If you have questions or need assistance, the SAPR program is here to help.