Recently, the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued new regulations mandating how educational programs, including MBKU, must respond to sexual misconduct cases under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX). Title IX is a federal law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex or gender in any federally funded education program or activity.
Our University’s current Prohibited Discrimination, Unlawful Harassment & Sexual Misconduct Policy (Title IX Policy) complies with prior regulations and guidance issued by OCR on Title IX. Our current policy and procedures are fair, thorough and sensitive to all individuals who may be involved in a matter. However, like all educational institutions that receive federal funding, we are required to modify our current policy in order to implement these new regulations and ensure our University’s compliance.
We are working with legal experts to review and analyze the new regulations to determine the best way to implement the new requirements. While we must ensure compliance, we are committed to remaining consistent with providing a fair, thorough and sensitive system that supports our community. We will make efforts to share our implementation plans and seek input from the University community.
You may always reach the Title IX Office by emailing us at TitleIX@Ketchum.edu or reaching out to one of our Title IX Officers directly. Information and resources can be found on our Title IX page. We remain available to provide service and support to our community.
Carmen Barnhardt, OD, MS Ed
Vice President for Student Affairs
Title IX Coordinator