The University of Lynchburg has shifted its Title IX Department from an on-campus office to a fully remote model, outsourcing services through Grand River Solutions, a for-profit company that partners with schools and colleges nationwide.
Title IX offices are responsible for handling reports of sexual harassment, assault, and gender-based misconduct. While students at Lynchburg still have access to these services, there is no longer a physical office on campus.
Dr. Robert L. Canida II, Chief Inclusive Excellence Officer and the university’s liaison with Grand River Solutions, said that the change reflects trends in higher education.
“Universities are moving toward having someone remote, and it’s just as effective as if someone’s right here,” Canida said.
Dr. Liz Frost, the university’s interim Title IX Coordinator through Grand River Solutions, explained that outsourcing allows institutions to gain expertise while being cost-effective.
“Oftentimes, an institution will hire a firm like GRS because of the level of expertise and the financial savings,” Frost said. “In the long run, hiring a firm can sometimes be more cost-effective for the institution, as there are not as many cases that might warrant a full-time, 12-month contracted position, and it is really challenging to hire a part-time Title IX Coordinator.”
Nationally, visibility and awareness of a university’s Title IX office are key factors regarding reporting.
A 2023 study in the Journal of American College Health found that students who could identify their Title IX coordinator were significantly more likely to report incidents of sexual or interpersonal violence.
Students at Lynchburg can file reports through the Title IX website, by email, or by phone. After a report is filed, Frost’s office sends an outreach letter outlining policy information, resources, and options for next steps.
Additionally, students who do not wish to go through the formal reporting process have other options available.
Supportive measures, such as No Contact Directives, class absences, room changes in residence halls, adjusted work schedules for on-campus jobs, counseling referrals, and safety escorts, can be provided without filing a formal report.
With over 25 years of experience in higher education, Frost emphasized the importance of keeping the department active and student-centered, even without a physical presence on campus.
“My goal is to have a 48-hour turnaround time once our office receives a concern, and an outreach letter is sent to the person who may have been harmed,” she said.
Frost, who is located in Arizona, sees the two-to-three-hour time difference as an asset, as she can meet with students past the times that in-person offices would be open.
Although the office is remote, Frost regularly meets with different departments and student groups to stay connected with the campus community.
One department she has formed a close collaboration with is HornetCare’s Counseling Center, which provides private spaces for students who need a secure location or reliable internet for meetings.
“I think this is where meeting virtually allows us to create a safe environment,” said Frost.
Despite being off-campus, Frost is working to ensure the University of Lynchburg remains a safe environment, with resources and personnel available to support students in need.
To reach Dr. Frost: titleix@lynchburg.edu or frost_l@lynchburg.edu
To file a Title IX report: Online Reporting Form
Additional Resources:
- Campus Safety: 434.544.5555
- Counseling & Health Services: 434.544.8616
- Spiritual Life: 434.544.8655
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800.656.4673
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800.799.7233
- Crisis Text Line: Text “TALK” to 741-741
