The Arkansas Tech University Board of Trustees approved an interim equal opportunity, harassment (sexual misconduct) and nondiscrimination policy and accompanying procedures for the 2020-21 academic year during a conference call meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 4.
The interim policy and procedures are consistent with new Title IX regulations published by the U.S. Department of Education May 19, 2020. The new federal regulations are effective and enforceable Aug. 14, 2020.
All education programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance, including ATU, are required to adopt the new regulations. At Arkansas Tech, the new regulations replace the institution’s previous sexual harassment policy, sexual misconduct policy and procedures and nondiscrimination policy.
Amy Pennington, associate vice president for student affairs, dean of students and Title IX coordinator at Arkansas Tech, wrote in a memorandum presented to the board that the interim policy and procedures will be published in the handbooks for ATU students, faculty and staff and that the ATU Office of Title IX will offer campus-wide training and education on the interim policy and procedures.
