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A student at Lebanon Valley College in Annville, Pennsylvania, has filed a federal lawsuit accusing the college of Title IX violations. The lawsuit, filed on May 6, alleges that the college failed to protect the student after she reported being sexually assaulted in a campus dorm room in September 2024. The student claims the college showed "deliberate indifference" by allowing the alleged attacker to remain in his academic program, athletic team, and campus job, while failing to provide her with necessary accommodations or ensure her safety.
The lawsuit further accuses the college of retaliating against the student by pressuring her to take time off, subjecting her to academic discipline, reducing her grades, and allowing harassment. In addition to Title IX-related claims, the suit alleges negligence in supervising dorm areas and permitting underage drinking on campus. The student seeks more than $150,000 in damages.
Lebanon Valley College, adhering to its policy, has declined to comment on the ongoing legal matter. According to the college's Title IX policy, the institution prohibits sex discrimination and outlines procedures for addressing such issues. The policy applies to all students and employees, emphasizing the importance of a safe campus environment.
The Title IX law mandates that educational institutions receiving federal financial assistance must not exhibit deliberate indifference to known acts of discrimination or harassment. Similar lawsuits have been seen in other institutions, highlighting the legal responsibilities colleges face in managing reports of sexual misconduct.