Summer 2025 Newsletter

Written By Julie Burke

Summer is well underway at Nearpass & Koegel, and we’re excited to share what we’ve been up to — and what’s ahead. From welcoming new team members and navigating updates in the legal landscape to continuing our adjudication work and preparing for events and training opportunities, there’s a lot happening across the firm.

Whether you’re out enjoying the sunshine or staying heads-down on important work, we hope this newsletter keeps you informed and inspired.

As always, thank you for your support and for being part of the Nearpass & Koegel community. If you know of an institution or organization that could benefit from our services, we always appreciate introductions and would be happy to connect.

In this issue:

  • Firm Happenings

  • New Faces

  • Legal Updates

  • Hearing and Appeal Officer Services

  • Upcoming Events

Firm Happenings

  • Nearpass & Koegel attorneys are actively engaged in the professional community through the Association of Workplace Investigators’ national training programs. Rachel taught at the AWI Training Institute in Portland this past May — pictured below during the weeklong program. Last week, Kate served as faculty for AWI’s Nashville Training Institute. The 2026 Institute dates are now listed on the AWI website.

  • To kick off the summer season, Nearpass & Koegel hosted the AWI Upstate New York Local Circle meeting along the Erie Canal. It was a beautiful evening of connection and conversation, as investigators from across the region gathered to enjoy good food, great company, and a scenic view.

  • Nearpass & Koegel was proud to sponsor a 2025 Legislative Update for Human Resource professionals on June 18, 2025. The event was presented by the Genesee Valley Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (GVC SHRM).  Click here for upcoming events.

  • In June, Kate traveled to Seattle, Washington to attend the National Association of College and University Attorneys (NACUA) Annual Conference. The event brought together higher ed legal professionals from across the country for several days of learning and connection. She also turned the trip into a mini family adventure — pictured below with her kids enjoying some Pacific Northwest summer fun!

New Faces

Legal Updates

NY Legislature Passes Title VI Compliance Bill for Colleges

New York’s Legislature has passed Bill A05448B, requiring all public and private colleges in the state to designate a Title VI Coordinator to ensure compliance with federal civil rights protections against race, color, and national origin discrimination. The bill also mandates annual training for students and staff, standardized complaint procedures, and consistent reporting practices.

The legislation aims to mirror Title IX infrastructure while addressing growing concerns around discrimination and harassment in higher education. It passed both chambers with near-unanimous support and now awaits the Governor’s signature. If signed, it will take effect 180 days later.

As always, Nearpass & Koegel remains aligned with evolving state, federal, and institutional standards. If you have questions about how this could affect your institution, our experienced team is ready to support through interim coverage, training, and related services.

Hearing & Appeal Officer Services

Title IX Adjudication Services for Higher Education Institutions and K–12 Schools—Nearpass & Koegel has a team of four attorneys trained and experienced in serving as hearing and appeal officers in Title IX and other misconduct proceedings. We bring fairness, professionalism, and trauma-informed practices to adjudications across academic settings. In addition to supporting colleges and universities, we serve as external decision-makers for K–12 school districts by providing an age-appropriate and impartial adjudication process.

  • Save the Date: AWI Upstate NY Local Circle Roundtable – Sept 17
    Couldn’t make our last meet-up? Join us for a virtual roundtable on September 17, 2025, to discuss timely topics in workplace investigations. Register on AWI’s website.

  • AWI Institute Dates for 2026 Announced
    Mark your calendars! AWI has released its 2026 Training Institute schedule—ideal for those looking to deepen their investigations expertise. View dates on the AWI website.

  • Advanced Training: Nicole to Attend AWI’s Advanced Seminar
    Nicole heads to Marina del Rey this September for AWI’s exclusive Advanced Seminar for AWI Certificate Holders. It’s a great opportunity to stay sharp and share insights with colleagues. Learn more.

  • URMIA 2025 Conference Set for October
    The URMIA Annual Conference lands in Las Vegas from October 12–16, 2025. A must for higher ed risk professionals. Explore more here.

  • Nicole Heads to ATIXA’s Annual Conference
    Nicole is attending ATIXA’s 14th Annual Conference in Baltimore (Oct 13–18), including the certification course “Sexual Harassment for Higher Education.” Learn more or register here.

  • N&K to Sponsor University of Vermont’s Legal Issues in Higher Ed Conference
    N&K is once again sponsoring UVM’s Annual Legal Issues in Higher Education Conference this October! Rachel, Rebecca, and Julie will be there. Come say hello and join the conversation. Register here.

  • See You in Atlanta at the AWI Annual Conference!
    We’re proud to sponsor the AWI Annual Conference, taking place November 6–7, 2025, in Atlanta. Kate will be attending and is looking forward to connecting with colleagues from across the country and around the world. More details here.

 

If you would like to discuss any topics covered in this newsletter or if you need assistance with investigations, mediation, interim support, Title IX services, or training, please contact us. We are here to assist you.

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Julie Burke
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Spring 2025 Newsletter