MSU Completes 95 Actions from Federal Title IX Reviews

Almost three years after resolution agreements were made with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office for Civil Rights, MSU has completed 95 actions to improve Title IX policies and procedures on schedule. 

“I am proud of MSU’s work to not only bring ourselves into compliance with federal regulations, but to go above and beyond to change our culture on campus as it relates to Title IX and relationship violence and sexual misconduct,” said Interim President Teresa K. Woodruff, Ph.D. “However, we know our work is far from over, and I look forward to strengthening our commitment to foster a safer campus.” 

The only substantive action that remains incomplete is contingent on the Dept. of Ed. OCR’s availability to train MSU leaders. 

President Emeritus Samuel L. Stanley Jr., M.D. appointed an expert committee who oversaw the progress of the changes, giving monthly updates the MSU “Our Commitment” website.  

“Prior to the resolution agreements, MSU was taking steps toward some of the actions recommended,” said Marilyn Tarrant, associate vice president of the Office of Risk and Compliance. “This oversight committee worked closely with several units to streamline, monitor and ensure completion of these action items. It was a campuswide commitment and a true team effort.” 

To further identify gaps in relationship violence and sexual misconduct prevention and response, MSU launched a five-year Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct Strategic Plan, based on a biennial survey assessing MSU’s climate. The recommendations of this plan are well underway. 

Woodruff intends to be a champion for this plan and other efforts as she prioritizes building trust, affirming transparency and advancing strategic initiatives. 

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to cultivating a safe and inclusive university characterized by care and respect for others,” said Woodruff.