Deputy Director, Civil Rights & Title IX Compliance

Pay Grade: 34E

Context of the Job:

The Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance oversees the University response to reports of discrimination and harassment as outlined within University Policy and ensures the University of Delaware’s compliance with Title IX, Titles VI and VII, Higher Education Amendments and any other applicable law(s), and oversees University’s minors on campus policy, process, and staff that administers it.

The Deputy Director of Civil Rights & Title IX Compliance reports to the Associate General Counsel, Compliance and Ethics Officer and will serve as University’s Title IX Coordinator. The Deputy Director enforces UD’s non-discrimination policies, ensuring compliance with federal and state laws and regulations pertaining to equal rights and nondiscrimination and managing University’s efforts to ensure a safe, equitable, and inclusive environment for all University constituencies. This role leads and coordinates investigations, develops policies and adapts processes to meet new regulatory requirements, prepares reports and submissions to federal and state agencies, and ensures and delivers adequate training.

Major Responsibilities:

• Oversee the University’s compliance with federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination and harassment. Serves as the primary point of contact for Title IX issues, including the investigation and resolution of complaints.
• Lead and manage investigations of complaints related to discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct. Ensure investigations are thorough, impartial, and conducted in a timely manner.
• Develop, implement, and regularly update the university’s policies and procedures related to civil rights, Title IX, and sexual misconduct. Ensure these policies are in compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Design and deliver training programs for students, faculty, and staff on topics related to civil rights, Title IX, and sexual misconduct prevention. Ensure the university community is aware of their rights and responsibilities under these laws.
• Coordinate with appropriate university staff to implement any interim measures that may be necessary in these cases.
• Maintain accurate records of all reports, investigations, and resolutions related to civil rights and Title IX. Provide regular reports to senior leadership and external agencies as required.
• Advise university leadership on emerging issues and trends related to civil rights and Title IX. Provide guidance on best practices in compliance, prevention, and response.
• Work collaboratively with various university departments, including University of Delaware Police Department (UDPD), Human Resources, Student Affairs, and the Office of General Counsel, to ensure a coordinated response to civil rights and Title IX issues. Engage with community partners and stakeholders to enhance the university’s efforts in these areas.
• Coordinate with campus and community resources to provide support services to individuals involved in civil rights and Title IX matters, including complainants, respondents, and witnesses.
• Identify and assess potential risks related to civil rights and Title IX compliance. Develop strategies to mitigate these risks and enhance the university’s overall compliance efforts.
• Maintain confidentiality in all matters related to civil rights and Title IX, ensuring that sensitive information is protected and handled appropriately.
• Maintain a case management database to organize, manage, and track all non-discrimination complaints. Ensure a well-documented reporting and resolution processes, in line with University’s expectations for document retention and privacy.
• Serve on campus committees as designated/assigned.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree and at least eight years of experience in civil rights, Title IX, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A JD degree or an advanced degree in a related field is preferred.
• Knowledge of federal nondiscrimination laws and regulations. Comprehensive knowledge of Title IX, Title VI, Title VII, ADA, Clery Act, VAWA, and other relevant civil rights laws and regulations. Familiarity with investigative practices and procedures in higher education.
• Strong investigative, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse populations.
• Ability to manage sensitive and complex issues with discretion and professionalism.
• Ability to manage multiple, on-going, and complex caseload of nondiscrimination related incidents and complaints.
• Ability to create, support, and deliver the training and learning process with respect to non-discrimination compliance. Strong presentation and facilitation skills with an emphasis on education and training for a variety of constituencies.
• Ability to use independent judgment and to manage and impart information to a range of clientele and/or media sources.
• Experience creating and maintaining a database. Maxient experience preferred.
• Ability to make administrative and procedural decisions and judgments on sensitive, confidential issues.
• Ability to build relationships and establish collaborative partnerships across the institution.
• Ability to work with a wide range of constituencies (staff, students, faculty, parents, administrators) with diplomacy and tact.
• Demonstrates an understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures and backgrounds.
• Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated and equity is a core value.

Special requirements:

• Some evenings and weekends may be required.