Dear campus community,

I have a few quick updates to share with you regarding Title IX Implementation Group progress.

First off, I’m pleased to announce the team has been finalized with the addition of Matt Hiebert, Hesston College men’s basketball head coach, and Larry Ruffin, a Hesston College sophomore in the Bible and Ministry program. A complete list of team members is available on the Title IX Implementation Group and Updates webpage.

Secondly, Safehope has agreed to serve as a consultant to our group, offering trauma-informed expertise and survivor advocacy. Safehope will provide training for our team as well as advice and guidance throughout the discernment process. They are honored and excited to support our students in this additional way. They have been a great partner for Hesston College and will continue to offer on-campus office hours in the coming year.

With these details in place, the Title IX Implementation Group was able to hold our first meeting earlier this week which focused on Title IX training for team members. This will help our team better navigate what’s required by law as well as trauma-informed best practices as we begin implementing the recommendations from the Cozen O’Connor report. The Title IX Implementation Group is scheduled to meet on a weekly basis moving forward.

Please keep our team in prayer as we continue the important work ahead of us. If you have any questions about the team or the work we’re doing, please contact me directly.

Sincerely,

Whitney Douglas