Welcome back to More Likely Than Not, the ATIXA podcast where we break down the latest in Title IX news and practice. In this episode, Kayleigh and Joe reflect on their journeys into the field, sharing what initially drew them to Title IX, how their early experiences shaped their perspectives, what it was like getting an honorary degree at ATIXA's "Listserv University," and what continues to fuel their passion more than a decade later.

They explore how civil rights compliance in education is shifting from fragmented practices to a more integrated approach, as federal enforcement intensifies on issues related to race, religion, national origin, and shared ancestry (Title VI), and sex (Title IX). This shift means institutions must quickly align their policies, procedures, and data-sharing efforts.

Kayleigh and Joe also unpack the implications of Columbia University’s $221 million settlement, including the unfreezing of $400 million in federal research funding and the imposition of external oversight for admissions and hiring. They examine how this settlement could serve as a blueprint for future enforcement, particularly on DEI-related campus protests, institutional accountability, and the risks of non-compliance.

Whether you're a Title IX Coordinator, Investigator, Advisor, or simply striving to understand the latest developments in civil rights enforcement, we’re more likely than not covering it in this week’s episode.

Relevant news:

In Extraordinary Deal With Trump, Columbia U. Agrees to Pay $200 Million to Restore Funds