Several new staff members have joined the Office of Equity and Diversity to improve our efforts to create and maintain a learning, living, and working environment free from all forms of sexual misconduct and relationship violence.
The three professionals report to Jenny Richter, associate vice chancellor and campus Title IX coordinator. The team works closely with the Center for Health Education and Wellness, the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, and other campus offices involved in providing reporting options and extending care and support to victims of sexual assault and all forms of sexual misconduct.
Chancellor Jimmy G. Cheek committed $700,000 in additional funding to add personnel and to fund additional training, compliance, and educational efforts focused on sexual assault.
“Our goal as the state’s flagship university is to be a leader in sexual assault education, response, and support, and to continue to evolve our framework for serving students based on best practices, new research, and shared knowledge,” Cheek said.
Erin Stoner came to UT in August and is serving as the senior deputy Title IX coordinator. She is working with other Title IX staff members to manage the university’s compliance responsibilities and policies that prohibit sexual assault and misconduct. Stoner also will conduct and supervise investigations and work with campus partners to manage the university’s protocol and practices to ensure compliance with all federal and state regulations.
She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in student affairs and higher education from Ball State University. Before coming to UT, she served as Title IX coordinator and director of student support and parent programs at the University of Indianapolis.
“My family and I are brand new to the area of Knoxville but have really enjoyed it so far. The welcoming nature of people at UT and the greater Knoxville area has been unbelievable. We are excited to call Knoxville home and enjoy all that it has to offer,” Stoner said.
Two new Title IX/EEO investigators also joined the team this summer. Their work involves conducting investigations of complaints that allege sexual misconduct. The investigators will monitor university practices and patterns that may impact nondiscrimination policies. They also will contribute to campus-wide efforts involved in building awareness about these issues.
Michelle Buck previously served as the assistant director of academic success and student affairs at Mercer University School of Law in Macon, Georgia. She has a bachelor’s degree in political science and English literature from Miami University and a law degree from Temple University.
Na’Tasha Webb-Prather recently earned her law degree from the University of Georgia. Prior to entering law school, she taught eighth grade special education for Teach for America. She has a bachelor’s degree in political science and African-American studies from Syracuse University.
Learn more about the university’s policy and to access training or other resources online. To speak with a member of the Title IX staff, call 865-974-2498 or visit the website of The Office of Equity and Diversity.
CONTACT:
Amy Blakely (865-974-5034, amy.blakely@tennessee.edu)