This week, students engaged in a three-day open forum to assist in vetting a survivor advocate who will oversee the campus’s response to sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence and stalking.

UC Berkeley initiated the hiring process this summer, but administrators waited until students returned to campus so that they could help interview candidates. The position, formally called the director of sexual assault prevention and student advocacy, was first announced by Chancellor Nicholas Dirks in February and will serve as a point person for sexual assault survivors.

At the forum, students posed questions to applicants and reviewed their cover letters and resumes. Required qualifications included at least five years of experience in the sexual violence prevention field and advanced knowledge of advising techniques.

ASUC Student Advocate Rishi Ahuja, who is on the search committee, explained that the impetus behind the position’s creation was the “clear need” for a person on campus to assist and advise survivors of sexual assault.

“The administration reached out to student government and asked, ‘Who would be a good fit and how can we best facilitate students getting into the hiring process?’ ” Ahuja said.

Associate Vice Chancellor and Dean of Students Joseph Greenwell said students can generally be involved in hiring processes for staff positions who directly deal with students through search and interview committees.

“We’re moving forward as expeditiously and thoughtfully as possible to find the best candidate for the position,” Greenwell said in an email. “We’re hopeful that the position will be filled soon.”

Ahuja said the ability for students to assist in hiring gives them a “very legitimate voice on the table.”

The forum continues Friday afternoon, as well as Wednesday, in the Unit 1 residence hall.