A conference for higher education professionals where complex legal situations are discussed, best practices are shared, and new higher education law strategies are forged.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education, legal challenges continue to emerge, requiring both seasoned professionals and newcomers in the field to stay informed and adaptable. The Legal Issues in Higher Education Conference at the University of Vermont stands as a beacon for those navigating these complex waters. Scheduled from October 28–30, 2024, this conference is set to be an invaluable experience for higher education legal experts, student affairs professionals, and university administrators.
For 34 years, the University of Vermont has hosted one of the nation’s most prestigious legal conferences. This annual event brings together leaders in higher education law, student affairs, and campus public safety among others. It’s a place where complex legal situations are dissected, best practices are shared, and new strategies are forged.
The conference will feature three days of keynote addresses, concurrent sessions, and roundtable discussions.
Key Highlights of the 2024 Conference
Keynote Speaker: Barbara A. Lee, Ph.D, J.D.
- Keynote Focus: Similarities and differences between Academic Freedom and Free Speech, and what are the implications of these for public institutions versus private institutions.
Barbara A. Lee is Distinguished Professor of Human Resource Management at Rutgers University, where she has taught higher education law and employment law for over forty years. Professor Lee has served as Dean of the School of Management and Labor Relations, Associate Provost, and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs. She is also Of Counsel to the law firm of Bond Schoeneck & King, where she practices higher education law and employment law.
Lee has published over 100 books and articles, including The Law of Higher Education (2019 with W. Kaplin, N. Hutchens and J. Rooksby), Academics in Court: The Consequences of Faculty Discrimination Litigation (1987 with G. LaNoue), and numerous articles in law journals and human resource management journals. She serves as editor of The Journal of College & University Law and has received several awards for her scholarship and her service to the higher education community. Dr. Lee holds a Ph.D. from The Ohio State University in Higher Education Administration and a J.D. from Georgetown University. She received her B.A., summa cum laude, from the University of Vermont.
Keynote Speaker: Jennifer S. Hirsch, Ph.D
- Keynote Focus: An expansive, empirically-grounded vision for campus sexual assault prevention. With empathy and compassion for the many struggles that young people face, this session approaches sexual assault as a public health problem and explains it by setting out a broader understanding of how sex is organized and what it means to young people in college.
- Moderated by Joe Storch, Senior Director of Compliance & Innovation Solutions, Grand River Solutions
Jennifer S. Hirsch, a medical anthropologist and Professor of Sociomedical Sciences at Columbia University, works at the intersection of public health and social science, with a research agenda that examines gender, sexuality and migration, the anthropology of love, social dimensions of HIV, and undergraduate well being, including sexual assault.
Hirsch co-directed the Sexual Health Initiative to Foster Transformation (SHIFT), a research project on sexual assault and sexual health among Columbia undergraduates. With Shamus Khan, she is coauthor of Sexual Citizens: Sex, Power, and Assault on Campus (WW Norton), which draws on SHIFT’s ethnographic research to examine sexual assault and consensual sex among undergraduates in relation to the broader context of campus life.
Hirsch co-directs the Columbia Population Research Center, which brings together faculty from schools across the campus who work on population health and inequalities. Hirsch also served six years as a board member for Jews for Racial & Economic Justice, including the last two as board chair. Hirsch earned her A.B. from Princeton University in History, with a certificate in Women’s Studies, and her Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University in Population Dynamics and Anthropology.
Featured Topic: Speech On Campus
Speech on campus is always a hot topic, even more so with the events of the last several years. We have two additional sessions related to speech on campus at the conference:
Strategic Messaging and Communication from Campus
- Intended to help administrators get their messages out to the campus and broader community of stakeholders.
Free Speech and Campus Responses to Controversial Events
- Focused on student organizations, campus policies and procedures, controversial speakers on campus, and using the presidential voice to issue university statements and implementations.
Speakers on these topics include:
- Linda Baughman, Dean of Students, University of St. Thomas
- Michelle N. Deutchman, Executive Director of the UC National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement
- Wyatt DuBois, Director, University Public Relations, Penn State
- Tamla Lewis, Associate General Counsel, The Pennsylvania State University
- Danny Shaha, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, Penn State University
Featured Topic: Title IX
It has been another dynamic year in the realm of Title IX regulations and related policy and practices, and we’re hosting at least three session focused on the topic:
For Your Bingo Cards: Another Set of Title IX Regulations (and Key Impacts, Complications, and Open Questions)
- James Keller, Saul Ewing; Marcie Gardner, General Counsel, Claremont McKenna College
- Tamla Lewis, Associate General Counsel, The Pennsylvania State University
Intersection of Title IX Regulation and Litigation
- Gina Maisto Smith, Chair, Institutional Response Group, Cozen O’Connor
- Joshua W.B. Richards, Partner, Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr LLP
You Now Have More Flexibility in Your Title IX Process; What Will You Do with It?
- Marjory D. Fisher, AVP & Title IX Coordinator, Columbia University
- Nicole Merhill, University Title IX Coordinator and Director of the Office for Gender Equity, Harvard University
Featured Topic: Restorative Practices
There is a keen focus on restorative practices within higher education administration, and we have an engaging session dedicated to the topic:
The Use of Restorative Practices to Address Campus Conflict
- Fabio A. Ayala, Assistant Director of the Center for Restorative Practices, Amherst College
- Suzanne “Susie” Belleci, Director of the Center for Restorative Practices, Amherst College
- Patricia Hamill, Clark Hill
- Maureen Holland, Institutional Response Group at Cozen O’Connor
Interactive Learning Session Topics
AI Conduct for Academics and Students
- Roger Skalbeck, Professor of Law, Associate Dean for Library and Information Resources, University of Richmond School of Law
- Jessica Copeland, Bond Schoeneck & King Attorneys
Navigate in the Anti-DEI Movement Environment
- Rasheed Ali Cromwell, President, The Harbor Institute
Shared Ancestry
- Guilherme Costa, Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary, Corporation at Bentley University
- Janet Elie Faulkner, Founding Attorney, Faulkner Legal
- Jennifer L. Papillo, Associate General Counsel, University of Vermont
- Trenten D. Klingerman, Partner, Stuart & Branigin
Merger and Acquisitions
- Joshua Grubman, Associate General Counsel, Dartmouth University
- Paul Lannon, Partner, Holland & Knight
Not Just Extended Time – Student and Employee Accommodations and Modifications
- Alexis Martinez, Executive Director and Interim Title IX Coordinator, Equity and Compliance Programs, Georgia Institute of Technology
- Seth Gilbertson, Senior Counsel, Bond Schoeneck & King Attorneys
You Can’t Make This Stuff Up: Reining in Reality and Risk Management in Employee Relations
- Daniel Kaufman, Partner, Michael Best & Friedrich
- Anne Bilder, General Counsel, University of Northern Iowa
Recent Clery Act Campus Crime Program Reviews: Lessons Learned for Implementation
- Steven Healy, The Healy+ Group; Ashley Reich, Senior Vice President of University Compliance, Liberty University
- Leslie Gomez, Vice Chair, Institutional Response Group, Cozen O’Connor
- Kyle C. Norton, Director, Regulatory Compliance, The Healy+ Group
Why Attend the Legal Issues in Higher Education Conference
Interactive Learning Sessions
What sets this conference apart is its interactive approach. Through dynamic sessions and panel discussions, attendees will gain practical solutions to real-world issues. The opportunity to build a network of peers serves as a long-term resource, extending the value of the conference far beyond its closing day. Regular attendees often highlight the unparalleled breadth and depth of topics covered, which empower them to implement effective policies and programs upon returning to their institutions.
“The interactive learning sessions at the Legal Issues in Higher Education Conference have been a game-changer for my professional development. Engaging with peers and experts in real-time discussions not only enhances my understanding of complex legal issues but also equips me with actionable strategies that I can immediately implement within my institution.” — Student Affairs Coordinator
Essential Collaboration with Leading Experts
In today’s climate, understanding the broad spectrum of legal issues in higher education is not just beneficial—it’s essential. This conference offers professionals the tools and insights needed to address current and future challenges effectively. It is an opportunity to learn from leading experts, engage in meaningful dialogue, and expand professional networks in a setting that encourages collaboration and innovation.
“The opportunity to learn from leading experts in higher education law is invaluable. Their insights not only shed light on the intricacies of current legal challenges but also inspire innovative approaches to problem-solving that can profoundly impact our institutions.” — Higher Education Legal Consultant
A Conference with a History
The Legal Issues in Higher Education Conference at the University of Vermont has been shaping higher education law since its inception in 1987. Over the years, it has become known as an essential training ground for practitioners across the nation seeking to stay updated on legal developments, network with colleagues, and advance their skills. In keeping with this tradition, the 2024 conference will continue to provide a platform for robust discussions and expert insights on critical legal issues facing higher education.
“Attending the Legal Issues in Higher Education Conference has been instrumental in enhancing my understanding of the legal landscape surrounding campus safety. Each year, I leave with fresh insights and tools that I can immediately apply to ensure a safer environment for our students. The connections I’ve made with fellow professionals and experts have also proven invaluable in navigating the complexities of public safety in higher education.” — Campus Public Safety Rep
Experience Vermont in the Fall
While the core of the conference is undoubtedly educational, the location itself adds a unique dimension to the event. Attendees can enjoy Vermont’s stunning fall foliage and explore the vibrant Church Street in downtown Burlington. It’s an experience that combines professional growth with personal enrichment. The University of Vermont stands ready to welcome attendees, as well as offer a range of accommodation options both on and off-campus.
Vermont’s rich cultural tapestry is woven into these gatherings, fostering a sense of community and celebration. The blend of professional development and the enchanting fall experience creates an idyllic atmosphere for conference attendees, allowing them to recharge amidst the rush of legal discourse and policy discussions.
Join Us!
Whether you’re a legal expert, student affairs professional, or university administrator, the Legal Issues in Higher Education Conference is your gateway to staying ahead in the field. Don’t miss out on this chance to enhance your knowledge, skills, and connections with colleagues from across the nation.
Register now to secure your place in this essential gathering and be part of shaping the future of higher education law. We look forward to welcoming you to Vermont this October.
