What is Title IX

Title IX prohibits discrimination based on sex in education programs and activities in federally funded schools. Title IX protects students, employees, applicants for admission and employment, and other persons from all forms of sex discrimination, including discrimination based on gender identity or failure to conform to stereotypical notions of masculinity or femininity.

On this page, you will find information about Title IX, available resources, and college policies and procedures regarding sexual misconduct. We hope you find this information helpful. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact the Title IX Office at TitleIX@bemidjistate.edu

Title IX also offers protections for pregnant or new parents who are students or staff. Bemidji State does not discriminate against any student on the basis of pregnancy or related conditions. The University will provide reasonable and appropriate adjustments and flexibility, upon request, to students based on their documented pregnancy-related circumstances. Such circumstances may include pregnancy, complications arising from pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, false pregnancy, miscarriage, termination of pregnancy or recovery. Bemidji State also has support for parenting students with children under the age of 18.

Title IX Amendments

Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972

“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”

Protections for Pregnant and Parenting Students 2024 Minnesota Statute 135A. 1582

Parenting and pregnant students have rights under Minnesota Statute 135A.1582. There are supports available to assist students as they navigate pregnancy and parenthood.

Minnesota State Board Policies and System Procedures

“No person shall be discriminated against in the terms and conditions of employment, personnel practices or access to and participation in, programs, services and activities with regard to race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. In addition, discrimination in employment based on familial status or membership or activity in a local commission as defined by law is prohibited.”

“Sexual violence is an intolerable intrusion into the most personal and private rights of an individual and is prohibited at Minnesota State Colleges and Universities.”

3.6 Student Conduct Hazing Policy

Pregnancy and Parenting Accommodation Request

Complete the form to request an accommodation, or if you need assistance, connect with the Parent Navigator Samantha Clausen.

1B.1.3 Access and Modifications for Pregnant and Parenting Students

Sexual Violence Report Form

If you have experienced sexual violence, including sexual assault, non-forcible sex acts, dating or relationship violence, stalking, sexual harassment or sexual exploitation, here are the steps you can take:

  1. In an emergency, contact 911 or Public Safety (218) 755-3888.
  2. To report a non-emergency sexual violence incident, contact the Investigation Office for Civil Rights by phone (218) 755-4121 or email (titleix@bemidjistate.edu) or visit Reporting a Sexual Violence Incident.

BSU/NTC Confidential Report Form for Sexual Misconduct, Dating/Relationship Violence, Stalking

This form is intended for use by students, employees, faculty, vendors, visitors or other concerned parties of both BSU and NTC to informally or anonymously report specific information related to incident(s) of sexual misconduct, dating/relationship violence and/or stalking.

Equal Opportunity and Nondiscrimination Complaint Form

We believe that diversity is a strength, and we are committed to fostering an inclusive community where all members are valued and respected.

If you have experienced retaliation or discrimination or harassment based on your sex, race, age, disability, color, creed, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status or status with regard to public assistance, you have the right to file a complaint.

Complaints about acts of discrimination or harassment should be directed to the Investigation Office for Civil Rights by phone (218) 755-4121, email (titleix@bemidjistate.edu) or by submitting this form.

A meeting will be scheduled with the Title IX Officer to discuss the situation and next steps. See the Center for Civil Rights: Investigations for more information.

Hazing Report Form

If you have witnessed or experienced hazing, use this form to report the incident.

Title IX and Minnesota State Board Policies and System Procedures Team

Jay Passa, Title IX Coordinator and Designated Officer
Email: jay.passa@bemidjistate.edu
Office Email: titleix@bemidjistate.edu
Phone: (218) 755-2080

Kevin Stensberg, Deputy Title IX Coordinator for Students
Senior Student Affairs Officer
Email: kevin.stensberg@bemidjistate.edu
Office email: vpsls@bemidjistate.edu
Phone: (218) 755-2075

Megan Zothman, Deputy Title IX Coordinator for Employees
Email: megan.zothman@bemidjistate.edu
Phone: (218) 755-2502

Erin Mykleby, Deputy Title IX Coordinator for Student-Athletes
Email: erin.mykleby@bemidjistate.edu
Phone: (218) 755-2142

Team Training

The most recent sexual assault data provided to the Minnesota Office of Higher Education is available for both Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College. The Clery Report captures the incidents of sexual violence on campus annually.