Deputy Legal Officer and Director, Title IX in Richmond, Virginia at Virginia Union University

Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus, it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1,568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report, holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

VUU provides a robust array of academic programs, including 35 Bachelor's, 11 Master's, and one Doctoral degree. Virginia Union University remains steadfast in its commitment to offering accessible, high-quality education, instilling a sense of assurance and confidence in its students. It fosters a vibrant intellectual community dedicated to the holistic development of future leaders.

Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institution's mission. The principles are Innovation, Spiritual Formation, Integrity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Excellence.

The Deputy Legal Officer and Director, Title IX is a dual-role executive responsible for supporting the Chief Legal Officer and/his designee in providing legal oversight and guidance to the university, while leading the institution’s Title IX compliance, investigations, education, and prevention efforts. This position plays a critical role in ensuring that the university complies with federal, state, and institutional laws and policies related to Title IX, civil rights, anti-discrimination, and equity.

Responsibilities

Assist the Chief Legal Officer and/or his designee in managing the university’s legal affairs, including contract review, risk management, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.Provide legal guidance on matters involving employment law, student affairs, research compliance, real estate, intellectual property, and governance.Support internal investigations related to policy violations, grievances, and regulatory compliance.Serve as a liaison with external legal counsel and governmental agencies, as appropriate.Draft and review university policies, procedures, and internal memoranda with legal implications.Participate in governance meetings and advise university leadership on legal risks and mitigation strategies.Provide legal support and guidance regarding matters involving litigation in federal courts, including federal court procedures, pleadings, discovery, motions practice, and coordination with outside litigation counsel.Demonstrate familiarity with federal employment discrimination laws enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), including complaint procedures, investigations, administrative charges, employer obligations, and institutional compliance requirements.Serve as the university’s Title IX Coordinator, ensuring institutional compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and related federal and state laws.Oversee the investigation and resolution of complaints of sex-based discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault, stalking, dating/domestic violence, and retaliation.Coordinate responses to complaints involving students, faculty, and staff, and ensure timely, fair, and impartial processes.Train and supervise Title IX investigators, deputies, and hearing officers.Develop and implement prevention, training, and awareness programs for students, faculty, and staff.Maintain accurate records of complaints, investigations, and outcomes, in compliance with regulatory reporting requirements.Prepare annual Clery Act and other compliance reports, as required.Monitor federal and state legislation, court rulings, and regulatory changes affecting Title IX and equity policies.

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.Member in good standing of the Virginia State Bar for a minimum of 3 years.Minimum of 7 years of legal experience, including at least 3 years in a higher education, government, or compliance-focused environment.Experience with federal court litigation, including knowledge of federal civil procedure, litigation processes, and federal court practice.Familiarity with EEOC laws, regulations, administrative procedures, and federal employment discrimination compliance requirements.Must be able to lift 10 pounds.

Work Location and On-Site Requirement

This is an on-site position located at Virginia Union University in Richmond, Virginia. The Deputy Legal Officer and Director, Title IX is expected to perform assigned duties on campus. This position is not eligible for remote or hybrid work arrangements.

Application Process

Candidates are required to submit their resume, four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns, please contact Askhr@vuu.edu.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class.

For more information about Virginia Union University, visit VUU About Page.