Upholding Gender Equity: Title IX Coordinators’ Experiences Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Postsecondary Students

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Wednesday 11:45am
  In Poster Session: Title IX Coordinators and Upholding Gender Equity

Abstract

This qualitative study explores how Title IX coordinators (TIXCs) at four-year public U.S. institutions support pregnant and parenting students (PPS). While Title IX mandates protections, PPS remain underserved due to inconsistent implementation. Using narrative inquiry and the Contexts for College Change framework, I conducted interviews with TIXCs across institutions categorized by PPS support typology. Findings reveal that TIXCs see their roles as advocating for students and ensuring compliance, shaped by personal experience, professional identity, and contextual factors at institutional, stakeholder, and societal levels. Seven themes emerged—three facilitators and four challenges. The study highlights the complexity of TIXC roles and provides guidance to improve equity-focused policies and campus practices that advance PPS academic success and retention.

Author

• Lori D. Rhea, University of Houston