Title IX - Understanding student rights, safety, and equality at SUNY Cortland

Creator

Courtney Romano

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Creation Date

11-2025

Description

The topic I taught to my class was Title IX, a federal law that prohibited sex discrimination in any educational program or activity receiving federal funding, including at SUNY Cortland. It played a vital role in promoting fairness and equality in admissions, financial aid, athletics, and protection from sexual harassment or assault. SUNY Cortland's Title IX Office worked to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students and employees. According to the American Psychological Association (2022), Title IX has protected millions of students over the past fifty years by expanding access to education, reducing sex-based barriers, and strengthening responses to sexual harassment and assault. Research from the American Psychological Association explained that Title IX had been central to advancing gender equality and expanding educational opportunities for over fifty years, especially in athletics, where it opened doors for women to compete and receive equal access to resources. I chose this topic because it was deeply personal to me as a student and Resident Assistant who had witnessed and been affected by sexual violence and discrimination. Through my presentation, I hoped to raise awareness and inspire others to help create a safer, more equitable campus environment for everyone.