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Member Spotlight: Matt Connell

What is a challenge you face doing Title IX work?

The work we all do in Title IX is challenging, emotionally exhausting, legally draining, and even physically demanding at times. Knowing we have an advocate and support system with ATIXA allows me to keep moving forward. Most things are never clear-cut or black and white, and the research involved is time-consuming.

What is the value of ATIXA membership for you?

The resources and support ATIXA offers are second to none. The listserv information and discussions are valuable, enlightening, and informational to help navigate such essential but sometimes difficult topics. I feel less isolated knowing others face similar struggles and that everyone is working together to solve these complex issues.

Why did you become a member of ATIXA?

Several years ago, I was asked to join our team of Title IX Investigators, to which I hesitantly agreed. I wasn’t sure what to expect or even what I was doing. After working with our Title IX Coordinator, she sent me to the ATIXA Level One certification, where the information, examples, and training were outstanding (Thank you, Brett, for a fantastic session!). As part of this process, our college has a Super Membership with ATIXA, and I quickly obtained my own credentials; the resources I found were (and still are) outstanding!

What is one piece of advice you would offer your fellow practitioners?

Listen and learn! As I noted above, it can seem like we are on an isolated island doing this work with no one around. Nothing could be more inaccurate. ATIXA, and specifically the listserv, are great ways to connect with others in the field, learn new things, or ask questions. We are all in this together!