Title IX

Title IX is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs and activities that receive federal funding. As a recipient of federal financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education, West Virginia University is required to ensure that all students, employees, and participants have equal access to educational opportunities free from sex-based discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.

Title IX applies broadly to educational institutions nationwide including K-12 school districts, colleges and universities, charter schools, and other federally funded programs.

Title IX creates a fair and welcoming environment for faculty, staff, and students. It covers sex-based violence and sex-based discrimination, including stalking, relationship violence, bullying, and sexual misconduct.

The regulations regarding Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 can be found on the Department of Justice website.

WVU’s Title IX obligations touch all areas of the campus community including, recruitment, admissions, and counseling; financial assistance; athletics; sex-based harassment; treatment of pregnant and parenting students; discipline; single-sex education; and employment. WVU and members of the campus community may not retaliate against any person filing a complaint against the University or another campus community member for participating in an investigation of a complaint.

Learn more about Title IX Reporting Options and Resources.

Obligations Under Title IX

Once a school knows or reasonably should know of possible sex-based discrimination or harassment, including sex-based violence, it must take immediate and appropriate action to investigate.

If a Title IX incident is reported, prompt and immediate steps to end the sex-based violence, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects MUST be taken.

The institution must also:

The institution’s grievance procedures must use the preponderance of evidence standard to resolve complaints. This standard of evidence is like saying “50% + a feather”. The institution must also notify both parties of the outcome of the complaint and appeal rights. The Reported Victim and the Respondent both have equal rights to notification, and each are informed of their appeal rights and action of the other person.

WVU Non-Discrimination Statement

West Virginia University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, marital or family status, pregnancy, veteran status, service in the uniformed services (as defined in state and federal law), religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, or gender expression in the administration of any of its educational programs, activities, or with respect to admission or employment.

In keeping with this commitment, members of the academic community are expected to demonstrate civility and mutual respect for all persons as well as understanding and appreciation for all persons, to express that perspective in every dimension of the institution’s life and mission, and to work cooperatively, representing not only the interests of their own groups but also those of the wider community.

Individuals believing they may have been illegally discriminated against by any member of the University community at West Virginia University may file a complaint with the Office of Compliance and Prevention Education.

Contact Executive Director of Compliance/Title IX Coordinator, James Goins Jr. at 304-293-5600 for more information or to file a report. Learn more about the policies and procedures which guide our work.