Northwestern University: Northwestern commemorates the 50th anniversary of Title IX

In recognition of the 50th anniversary of Title IX, Northwestern University is hosting a three-day series of panels and events Oct. 27-29 to explore the 1972 law that prohibited discrimination based on sex in education and programs receiving federal financial assistance and confront the needs for improvement moving forward.

Events hosted by the Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications, Kellogg School of Management and Northwestern Athletics, and sponsored by Medill and the Office of the Provost, are free and open to the public. Visit the Title IX site for event highlights and other information. Registration is encouraged but not required.

“On the brink of the midterm elections, we will look ahead with a critical eye at the pressing issue of gender equity and how Title IX is holding up a half-century later in regard to a host of issues including the handling of sexual assault and harassment on college campuses, compliance of high school and college athletic departments and the hiring of women to coaching and administrative jobs,” said organizer Melissa Isaacson, an assistant professor at Medill.

“This is a unique opportunity for the Northwestern community to participate in this important discussion with our alumni and the public,” she said.

Title IX at 50 kicks off with an opening event Thursday, Oct. 27, featuring Mary Carillo, widely considered one of the best sports analysts in the country, and Northwestern alumna Katrina Adams, the first African American president and CEO of the United States Tennis Association, who won the NCAA doubles title with partner Diane Donnelly in 1987. Northwestern President Michael Schill and Medill Dean Charles Whitaker will offer welcoming remarks.

“Title IX is a groundbreaking piece of legislation that reshaped the American socio-political landscape,” Whitaker said. “Northwestern’s events allow us to celebrate and explore not only how Title IX came to fruition, but how it continues to undergird our institutions and enrich our lives.”