Title IX

Consistent with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Virginia State University does not discriminate against students, faculty or staff based on sex in any of its programs or activities, including but not limited to educational programs, employment, recruitment, and admission. Sexual harassment, including sexual violence, is a kind of sex discrimination and is prohibited by Title IX and by the University.

Title IX regulations require the University to appoint a Title IX Coordinator to coordinate its compliance with Title IX, to publish a notice of nondiscrimination and to publish grievance procedures that lead to the prompt and equitable resolution of Title IX complaints. The University is also required to publish the name and contact information of the designated Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX Coordinator for Virginia State University is Deborah Howard. Her contact information is below:

The Title IX Coordinator provides oversight for the investigation and resolution of all student versus student complaints of sexual assault, harassment, sexual violence, retaliation, and gender discrimination. To proactively address these issues on our campus, the Title IX Coordinator also provides general and targeted educational programs and consultation to prevent discrimination and harassment:

Preventative Education

• In-person training and information sessions
• Coordination of university mandated training for students, faculty and staff
• Customized departmental training
• Provide general safety tips and strategies for being an active bystander

Consultative Services

• On-going communication, technical assistance and guidance on university policies and procedures to ensure consistent practices

The Title IX Coordinator's day-to-day duties include:

• Being available to meet with students, staff and faculty who believe sexual violence has occurred.
• Ensuring that complaints are handled through consistent practices and standards, and in a prompt and equitable fashion.
• Upon receiving notice of potential acts of sexual violence, either personally investigating the incident or overseeing an independent investigation or other response.
• Providing assistance to and working with the institution’s law enforcement employees on appropriate responses to reports of sexual violence.
• Reviewing all complaints received to determine whether they present a potential issue under Title IX and/or to identify and address any patterns or systemic problems.
• Putting forth programs to prevent sexual violence matters, and taking actions designed to effectively stop the discrimination.
• Maintaining confidential records of all Title IX complaints and University responses.
• Reviews applicable VSU policies to ensure institutional compliance with Title IX, VAWA and the Clery Act.

For additional information or questions, contact:

Deborah D. Howard, MS, VASIII
Title IX Coordinator
Office of EEO and Title IX Compliance
Virginia Hall – Room 313
1 Hayden Drive
P.O. Box 9001
Virginia State University, VA 23806
P: (804) 524-5371
F: (804) 524-6506
TitleIX@vsu.edu 
dhoward@vsu.edu 

Investigation Procedures