Arizona State University is among 55 colleges and universities being investigated by the federal government over its handling of sexual assault complaints. The names of the schools were released Thursday.
The Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights made the unprecedented decision to release the names of the colleges and universities being investigated under Title IX.
The information comes on the heels of President Barack Obama’s announcement earlier this week of greater transparency on the issue of sexual assaults on campuses.
Title IX is a section of the Educational Amendments of 1972 that prohibits gender discrimination in schools that obtain federal funds. It is best known for guaranteeing women’s rights to equal access in athletics. The legislation also includes student protection from sexual harassment and assault.
In a written response, ASU said when it was informed by the U.S. Department of Education that it had received a complaint, the university promptly provided all relevant information to the agency. Investigators visited ASU last fall, and the university says it is waiting for further word.
