Meet Our Staff
Sarah Garner, J.D.
Ethics and Compliance Officer, Title IX Coordinator and Records Officer
815-753-5560 | sadamski1@niu.edu titleixcoordinator@niu.edu
Responsible for the development, coordination and leadership of the university’s ethics and compliance program. Identifies compliance mandates and collaborates with campus partners to ensure implementation. Provides direct oversight of Title IX compliance and investigations. Manages the university’s records retention program.
Lindsay Hatzis, J.D., M.P.A.
Director of Investigations and Clery Compliance, Deputy Title IX Coordinator
815-753-1649 | lhatzis@niu.edu
Manages the day-to-day responsibilities associated with internal administrative investigations of alleged civil rights and Title IX violations and the university’s compliance with the Clery Act. Serves as the chief internal investigator for the university and deputy Title IX coordinator for investigations. Manages a team of investigators and conducts investigations when deemed appropriate. Evaluates laws and regulations pertaining to civil rights, Title IX and the Clery Act to ensure compliance and best practice.
Rebecca Hunt, M.L.I.S., Ph.D.
University Policy Librarian
815-753-9021 | rhunt@niu.edu
Coordinates the collection and maintenance of all university policies. Provides guidance on how to develop university policies and procedures. Collaborates with campus units on drafting, revising and updating policies.
Theresa Melidis
Assistant Director of Clery Compliance and Title IX Investigator
815-753-9364 | tmelidis@niu.edu
Investigates Title IX/sexual misconduct complaints and conducts applicable legal research as it relates to the current trends and laws governing sexual misconduct in higher education. Assists in the university’s compliance with the Clery Act by administering training and communicating with external agencies. Assists with the development and implementation of applicable policies and response procedures.
Manuel Valdez, J.D.
Assistant Director of Investigations and Civil Rights Investigator
815-753-0810 | mvaldez2@niu.edu
Investigates allegations of discrimination, harassment and retaliation in violation of university policy and various federal and state civil rights laws. Advises and trains departments on issues related to ECO policies and response procedures. Responsible for information requests and reporting to external agencies.
Katharine Whitelaw
Information Technology Accessibility Officer
815-753-5467 | kwhitelaw@niu.edu
Promotes the accessibility of NIU’s electronic and information technology as required by Illinois and federal law. Works with Procurement Services to purchase accessible products. Responds to issues regarding inaccessible technology and helps identify short-term and long-term solutions. Educates the campus about what makes technology accessible and the benefits to everyone.
