This presentation explores the best practices for conducting investigations under Title VI and Title VII in higher education settings, with a focus on compliance and institutional integrity.

Attendees will have an overview of the legal frameworks governing discrimination based on race, color, national origin (Title VI), and race, color, religion, sex, and national origin in employment (Title VII), specifically as they apply to colleges and universities. Through real-world scenarios and interactive polling, participants will have the opportunity to identify potential pitfalls and discuss appropriate investigative responses in a variety of complex situations.

This session will provide practical suggestions for improving investigative procedures, including tips for interviewing witnesses, handling confidentiality, documenting findings, and ensuring proper compliance with federal law. Attendees will leave with actionable takeaways and resources to strengthen their institution’s approach to Title VI and Title VII investigations, reduce legal risk, and foster a campus environment that is both inclusive and legally compliant.

Presenter: Aleksandra O. Rushing, J.D., Partner, Husch Blackwell

Aleks counsels colleges and universities nationwide on the complex legal challenges facing higher education today. She works with institutions of all sizes and missions, advising on compliance, investigations, and litigation related to campus safety, harassment, discrimination, and student conduct. Her expertise includes managing sensitive internal and external investigations, particularly those involving Title VI, VII, IX, Clery Act, ADA, and other key federal and state laws.

Recognized for her leadership in compliance and risk mitigation, Aleks helps higher education clients develop robust policies, procedures, and training to address issues such as sexual misconduct, hazing, student death, and allegations of abuse. She also provides strategic guidance on admissions, enrollment, disability accommodations, and parental disputes, ensuring institutional actions are both effective and legally sound. Aleks is adept at supporting campus leaders and boards through governance matters, policy development, and fiduciary responsibilities.

Known for her responsiveness and practical approach, Aleks partners closely with campus stakeholders to proactively identify risks and tailor solutions that foster safe, inclusive, and thriving academic communities. Her service-first philosophy and deep understanding of the higher education landscape make her a trusted advisor to colleges and universities navigating today’s evolving legal environment.

Moderator: Judy Spain, J.D., CCEP

Judy currently serves as the GICA Compliance Program Consultant and serves on the Board, Society for Corporate Compliance and Ethics.    She is a Professor Emeritus, an attorney licensed in Kentucky, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, and is a Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional.  She served as General Counsel and Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer at Eastern Kentucky University and Manhattanville College, where she developed and implemented compliance programs.  Judy is the author of the first book on higher education compliance, Higher Education Compliance:  Blueprint for Success.  Judy is also the author of Compliance Risk Assessments:  An Introduction published by the Society for Corporate Compliance and Ethics.  Her third book, Higher Education Compliance: What Governing Boards Really Need to Know is available in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook.