By Mattie Fitzpatrick | August 28, 2023
Michelly Peña is the new interim Title IX Coordinator and Director of the Office of Equity and Compliance.
Photo Credit: UAlbany Office of Equity and Compliance Webpage
The University at Albany has appointed a new Director of the Office of Equity and Compliance (OEC), Title IX Coordinator, and Domestic Violence Agency Liaison. Michelly Peña is the new interim Title IX Coordinator.
UAlbany currently has the position of Domestic Violence Agency Liaison within the OEC but this position will be transitioned to Human Resources. It’s unsure how long this position will remain temporary but Director Peña has the confidence of UAlbany.
University Spokesman Jordan Carleo-Evangelist commented on Peña’s appointment: “...the University has full confidence in her and her colleagues’ ability to continue the office’s important work on behalf of students, faculty and staff.”
Peña’s responsibilities as interim Title IX Coordinator and Director OEC include overseeing the University’s response to discrimination, coordinating programs for the community and overseeing investigations of workplace discrimination and sexual violence on campus to ensure a fair and impartial process for all members of the community.
Director Peña succeeded Amelia Barbadoro who served as Title IX Coordinator from 2018 to earlier this summer before leaving for another position. Peña has been a staff member at UAlbany for a collective 14 years and has completed numerous trainings including Title IX Investigator Training, Neurobiology of Sexual Assault and Navigating the Legal Terrain of Mental Health Issues on Campus.
The Title IX Office is responsible for all sexual misconduct reports made through the University at Albany in accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 which prohibits discrimination based on sex in educational programs that are given federal financial funding.
Students can reach out and make reports against UAlbany students or employees either online or in person. Students have the right to file a complaint with both the University and law enforcement. After making a report, a student should expect an email from the Title IX Coordinator or their designee. This email will provide information about reporting options, resources, and support services.