The United States Department of Education announced their fine of $14 million imposed against Liberty University on March 5.
Liberty University is one of the world’s largest Christian universities, with approximately 135,000 enrolled students annually, and around $4 billion in total assets. While some see Liberty University as a spearhead in Christian education, the responsibility of holding such a public role in leading the path for Christian education, can come with a cost.
The $14 million dollar fine was imposed after the DOE completed a two-year investigation into the campus safety requirements at Liberty University.
Upon concluding the investigation, the DOE released 11 findings that violated the Clery Act, which requires schools that receive government funding to report to the DOE certain crime and safety statistics.
Among these findings were violations that included a “lack of administrative capability,” and failure to properly record, classify and disclose crime statistics on campus. A large concern was also the negligence and violation of complying with the Violence Against Women Act, which enforces certain sexual violence prevention and response measures.
Not only has the school been fined the $14 million for not complying with the Clery Act, but the school is also required to bring the university into full compliance with the act.
Scandal and coverup seems to be no stranger to Liberty University however, with the former university president Jerry Falwell Jr. having to resign due to scandal. Likewise, rulings like Title IX and other acts such as the Clery Act, have become legal issues for Christian universities that seek religious exemption from Title IX specifically.
These exemptions are often argued against on the issues of LGBTQ+ issues, however Title IX covers more than just the minority community. It also protects students from sex-based crimes of any level.
Liberty University serves as an example to Christian Universities as to what not to do. Title IX is complicated, yes, with John Brown University even having its own issues with it. However, it serves as accountability for not only public schools, but also Christian schools to protect its students and provide a safe environment for its students.
Photo courtesy of Mikael Kristenson on Unsplash
