Following Abbey Boyd’s recent stepping down from Taylor University’s Title IX coordinator position, Erin Luthy has been appointed as the interim coordinator while the school searches for a permanent one.
Title IX is the United States law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in schools that receive federal funding. Taylor University provides resources for individuals to report sexual or racial harassment. A person can fill out a web form, consult Taylor University’s Counseling Center, talk to Campus Pastor Greg Dyson or contact the Title IX coordinator.
Julia Hurlow serves as Taylor’s associate vice president for Student Development and director of Residence Life. She was also previously a member of the Title IX committee and has led many classes and workshops about how to engage with others.
She said Title IX plays a significant role in cultivating a thriving Christian community.
“Giving and receiving dignity is extremely important,” Hurlow said. “Each person deserves to be respected. When people do not receive dignity and respect, it is important to have policies and procedures that ensure care will be given. Title IX is one way for this to take place.”
Given the high priority with which Title IX issues are held, the university chose to fill the coordinator opening with a faculty member who already had plenty of experience with Title IX policy.
Luthy is most well-known as Taylor University’s head volleyball coach. However, Luthy is also equipped with knowledge in psychology and counseling. With these assets, she worked with Title IX cases for seven years before her recent appointment as the interim coordinator.
“I started out as an investigator and then I became an adjudicator,” Luthy said. “I’ve also stepped in and coordinated a couple of cases.”
When the university requested her to fill the coordinator position, she was ready to step in and help. As the head volleyball coach at Taylor, Luthy recognized the importance of stepping onto the court when needed.
Luthy acknowledged how her experience as a coach benefits her in this new position.
“Title IX allegations are tricky, and they’re hard,” Luthy said. “To be able to help coordinate and walk through that process with students, I would want to treat them like I would want my players treated. I want to be able to create a safe environment, walk alongside them, and create advocacy and support.”
As a coach, she has also had experience with the media and allegations that surface and noted how this experience has prepared her for working with Title IX cases.
As Taylor University searches for a permanent Title IX coordinator replacement, Hurlow believes they will look for certain characteristics in potential candidates.
Hurlow believes knowledge of Title IX policy, strong communication skills, objectivity, and the ability to work collaboratively in a diverse environment are assets that Taylor University is keeping an eye out for.
In the meantime, Luthy has added the role of coordinator to the many other hats she wears and will serve the university in this way throughout the spring semester.
In the case of sexual or racial harassment, students at Taylor University remain equipped with resources with which they can consult.
“We’re creating a community where complainants feel heard and supported,” Luthy said.
