Sexual Harassment, Sexual Assault, and Relationship Violence: Prevention and Support

Dear Luther College Community,

On June 23, 2022, the U.S. Department of Education released proposed new federal regulations on how education institutions must handle reports of sexual harassment. The proposed regulations define which behaviors fall under the purview of Title IX (sexual harassment, sexual assault, stalking, dating violence, domestic violence as well as sex discrimination). The current Title IX policy and procedures will remain in effect until a final rule is issued and effective.

When the new regulations are announced, Luther College will assemble a Task Force of key stakeholders from our community, including students, to develop new policies and procedures compliant with the federal requirements for Title IX. Our purpose is to inform you of the college’s continuing commitment to preventing sexual harassment and violence, outline potential policy changes in alignment with the proposed new federal regulations, and invite your feedback on how the policy may affect our community.  

Luther College’s Commitment

Luther College is committed to creating and maintaining an atmosphere where all members of the community – students, faculty, staff, and visitors – are treated with respect and dignity. Luther College’s goal is to empower students through education, training, and involvement to effect positive culture change on campus. The college will not tolerate sexual harassment in any form. Sexual harassment is not only an act against an individual; it is also an act that affects the entire college community. Acts of sexual harassment are inconsistent with our educational mission and values.

The College continues its tradition to provide individualized supportive measures in order to best serve students and employees. Employees’ and students’ well-being, safety, and ability to thrive at Luther are of utmost importance to us beyond our federal compliance.  The Title IX Coordinator is available to answer questions and concerns that you may have.

Currently, the Department of Education is receiving comments on the expected new rules prior to issuance. The Department's proposed Title IX regulations will be open for public comment for 60 days from the date of publication in the Federal Register.

Additional information on the proposed rule, including a summary with background information and a fact sheet, is available here.

The unofficial version of the proposed rule is available here.

Kasey Nikkel

Title IX Coordinator
[email protected]
(563)387-1825