Hello, welcome to Title IX Consulting Group

MEET OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM

Sandra E. Hodgin, PHD
(Dr. Sandi)

CEO & Founder
Title IX & Clery Compliance Expert
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Lanie Bandell, JD

Attorney
Title IX Advisor
Title IX Hearing Officer
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Elizabeth Roberts Ackman

Title IX Outreach Coordinator
Title IX Investigator
Housing Specialist
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Nandini Nair

Title IX Policy & Outreach Lead
Title IX Investigator
Pregnant & Parenting Specialist
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Debra Marquez

HR/Title VII Compliance & Employee Practices Specialist
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Christopher M. Aboy

Clery Act Compliance Liaison
Campus Safety & Police Tactics Consultant
Self-Defense Expert
Federal Law Enforcement Professional
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Lt. Raymond Mendez (Ret.)

Clery Act Compliance Liaison
Campus Safety & Police Tactics Consultant
Law Enforcement Professional
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Bobby Cruz

Research & Development Fellow
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Dr. Sandi

Dr. Sandra (“Sandi”) Hodgin is a nationally recognized leader in sexual violence prevention, gender discrimination analysis, and Title IX compliance, with over 20 years of expertise in transforming institutions through education, policy development, and systemic change. Holding dual PhDs in Political Science (Public Policy) and Education, Dr. Sandi combines academic rigor with practical application to help institutions address sexual violence, foster equity, and uphold federal compliance standards.

As the Founder and CEO of Title IX Consulting Group, Dr. Sandi provides strategic consulting, expert witness testimony, and institutional training to educational institutions across the country. Certified in all adjudication roles, including investigator, hearing officer, mediator, and Title IX coordinator, Dr. Sandi is uniquely equipped to guide schools and universities through the complexities of Title IX investigations, hearings, and conflict resolution.

Dr. Sandi is deeply committed to sexual violence prevention, having designed and implemented evidence-based prevention education programs for both children and adults. Early in her career, Dr. Sandi developed and tested sexual abuse prevention education curricula for a Southern California mental health organization, using pre- and post-testing to determine effective methods for educating children—a foundation that later informed adult-focused prevention programs.

In institutional roles, Dr. Sandi served as the first Title IX Compliance Analyst for Claremont Graduate University, ensuring alignment with federal policies, and as the Assistant Director of Title IX Compliance at Colorado State University, overseeing investigations, policy compliance, and training.

As a Title IX expert witness for nearly a decade, Dr. Sandi has provided critical analysis in high-profile federal court cases involving complex Title IX matters. Notably, Dr. Sandi served as the Title IX consultant for plaintiffs in the landmark Liberty University case, where 22 Jane Does filed suit for the university’s Title IX non-compliance. This case culminated in a $14 million fine by the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) in 2024 for violations, including failure to report crimes, notify victims of their rights, maintain accurate crime logs, and issue timely warnings.

Certified in Dispute Resolution, Mediation, Informal Resolution, and Crisis Intervention Sexual Assault Counseling, Dr. Sandi is a visionary leader in Title IX policy development and implementation. Her approach emphasizes strategic, incremental improvements that prioritize institutional compliance, reduce liability, and foster safer campus environments.

“My career is driven by a commitment to help society combat rape culture through policy and education at all levels of the education system. Our opportunity to influence societal change lies in shaping the minds of those we are still molding.”

Through Title IX Consulting Group, Dr. Sandi continues to provide institutions with the tools, expertise, and strategies necessary to ensure compliance, promote equity, and create environments that prioritize the safety and well-being of every individual.

Lanie Bandell, JD

Lanie Bandell is an attorney at Lorium Law and a dedicated consultant with Title IX Consulting Group, specializing in Title IX hearings. With extensive legal expertise and over two decades of courtroom experience, Ms. Bandell brings a sharp legal acumen and a deep understanding of Title IX matters to her role.

Ms. Bandell’s work focuses on assisting educational institutions in navigating the complexities of Title IX regulations. She serves as a Title IX advisor nationwide, providing guidance to K-12 schools, colleges, and universities on compliance, investigations, and hearings. Her vast litigation experience ensures that she is well-equipped to handle high-stakes and sensitive cases, helping institutions maintain compliance while fostering equity and fairness in their processes.

Prior to joining Title IX Consulting Group, Ms. Bandell served as a prosecutor in Florida’s 17th Judicial Circuit (Broward County) for 22 years. As a Deputy Chief of the Homicide Trial Unit and a highly skilled trial attorney, she led and supervised cases ranging from misdemeanors to capital crimes. This unparalleled courtroom experience translates seamlessly to her work with Title IX, where she applies her skills to manage complex investigations, advise on procedural compliance, and participate in live hearings.

Ms. Bandell graduated cum laude with a B.A. from Brandeis University and earned her J.D. from Nova Southeastern University-Shepard Broad College of Law, where she also graduated cum laude and served as an editor of the Law Review. Throughout her career, she has been involved in high-profile cases covered by major media outlets (including Dateline- NBC), equipping her with the ability to manage sensitive and high-visibility Title IX matters.

Barred in both Florida and Georgia, Ms. Bandell is a trusted advisor and advocate for Title IX compliance. Her comprehensive legal background and commitment to equity make her an invaluable resource for institutions striving to meet the demands of federal Title IX regulations.

Elizabeth Roberts Ackman

Elizabeth Roberts Ackman is a seasoned Title IX Investigator with over 20 years of experience in higher education, specializing in conducting neutral, comprehensive investigations into allegations of sexual harassment, sexual violence, and discrimination. Her work is driven by a commitment to equity, compliance, and fostering safe campus environments that uphold federal Title IX regulations and institutional accountability.

Ms. Ackman has extensive experience navigating the complexities of Title IX investigations, ensuring a fair and impartial process for all parties while adhering to the highest standards of professionalism and sensitivity. She excels in managing multifaceted cases, including those involving residential communities, where her deep expertise in Housing and Residence Life provides a valuable lens for addressing Title IX concerns in living-learning environments.

Her housing background enables her to identify and address Title IX-related challenges unique to residential settings, including conflicts, power dynamics, and community safety. Ms. Ackman has successfully developed and implemented policies that integrate housing operations with Title IX compliance, ensuring that residential staff are equipped to recognize, report, and respond to Title IX incidents effectively. She has also provided targeted training for residence life teams to promote proactive prevention and support efforts within campus housing.

Throughout her career, Ms. Ackman has been a trusted partner to institutions nationwide, providing expertise in Title IX investigations that not only resolve immediate issues but also strengthen long-term compliance strategies. Her ability to balance the nuanced needs of residential and campus-wide communities has made her an invaluable asset in fostering environments where students feel safe, supported, and empowered.

Dedicated to ongoing professional development, Ms. Ackman stays at the forefront of evolving Title IX regulations and best practices, ensuring that her work consistently enhances institutional compliance and reduces liability. By integrating her investigative skills with her housing expertise, Ms. Ackman offers a holistic approach to creating equitable, inclusive, and safe campuses.

Nandini Nair

Nandini Nair is a dynamic professional with a strong academic foundation and a passion for fostering equity and inclusivity on campuses. Currently completing her Double Masters in Applied Gender Studies, Public Policy, and Evaluation at Claremont Graduate University in California, Ms. Nair combines her interdisciplinary expertise with practical experience to address complex issues surrounding Title IX compliance and campus outreach.

Originally from India, Ms. Nair holds an undergraduate degree in International Relations with a minor in Sociology, equipping her with a global perspective on gender-based violence, reproductive rights, and systemic inequities. Since moving to the United States two years ago, she has immersed herself in Title IX compliance efforts, developing the skills and knowledge necessary to promote campus safety and ensure institutional adherence to federal mandates.

Ms. Nair’s work includes a particular focus on pregnant and parenting equity compliance, an area often underrepresented in Title IX implementation. She has supported the development of resource materials and policies that protect the rights of pregnant and parenting students, ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities and support services. Her expertise extends to creating best practices for accommodating these students and conducting related training.

In addition to her policy work, Ms. Nair is highly skilled in campus outreach, working directly with administrators and students to raise awareness about Title IX rights, responsibilities, and critical updates. She has contributed to initiatives that educate campus communities on gender-based violence prevention, community resources, and fostering inclusive environments. Her ability to translate complex policies into practical, actionable strategies makes her an effective advocate and educator.

In her growing role with Title IX Consulting Group, Ms. Nair also serves as a Title IX investigator, where she applies her expanding expertise to conduct thorough, fair, and compliant investigations. Her dedication to learning and professional growth, combined with her passion for equity, positions her as a valuable asset in addressing the evolving challenges of Title IX compliance.

Through her work in campus outreach, equity policy development, and investigations Ms. Nair is helping shape safer and more inclusive educational environments across the U.S.

Debra Marquez

Debra Marquez is a consultant with Title IX Consulting Group, and brings a unique perspective to the intersection of Title VII and Title IX compliance, emphasizing the importance of aligning employee practices with institutional equity obligations. With over 25 years of experience in human resources and administration, Ms. Marquez strengthens our organization’s ability to provide comprehensive HR support for educational institutions, ensuring compliance and fostering environments where both employees and students can thrive.

Currently, Ms. Marquez serves as the Executive Director of the Office of the Ombuds at the California University of Science and Medicine (CUSM), where she promotes equitable practices and facilitates organizational success. Previously, as the Executive Director of Human Resources at CUSM, she led significant initiatives, including the implementation of a Human Resources Information System (HRIS), streamlining personnel data management and cutting costs by transitioning payroll in-house. She played a key role in shaping HR policies, managing employee relations, and supporting compliance and strategic planning processes.

Ms. Marquez is advancing her expertise through a PhD in Leadership Studies at California Baptist University, building on her MBA from the University of La Verne. This strong academic foundation enhances her ability to provide innovative solutions in management and organizational leadership.

She is an active member of professional organizations such as CASBO, SHRM, and CUPA-HR, contributing to the field through leadership roles and industry presentations.

By combining her extensive expertise in Title VII compliance, HR practices, and employee relations with Title IX Consulting Group’s focus on equity and regulatory adherence, Ms. Marquez enhances our ability to deliver holistic support to institutions. Her work reinforces the critical connection between Title VII and Title IX, ensuring both workplace and campus environments are inclusive, compliant, and effective.

Christopher M. Aboy

Christopher Aboy is a Federal Law Enforcement Officer with over 22 years of experience and a Top Secret Clearance. With an extensive background in public safety, law enforcement, and compliance, Officer Aboy plays a vital role at Title IX Consulting Group. He specializes in Clery Act compliance, assisting educational institutions in creating policies and procedures that align with federal mandates for campus safety and crime reporting.

A nationally recognized self-defense instructor, Officer Aboy empowers students and employees across the country through practical and effective self-defense training programs. His sessions focus on building confidence and equipping individuals with the skills to protect themselves in real-world situations. These programs are designed to exceed the prevention education mandates required under Clery Act and Title IX compliance, providing campuses with a proactive approach to personal safety.

As the founder and head instructor of TAG Muay Thai, a renowned Muay Thai and MMA training facility, Officer Aboy brings leadership, discipline, and a focus on safety to his work. His expertise in self-defense and law enforcement tactics ensures that institutions receive cutting-edge training that fosters a safer and more empowered campus environment.

Additionally, Officer Aboy is a published author of works on coaching techniques and law enforcement career preparation. His dedication to education, systematic problem-solving, and campus safety makes him a trusted partner for institutions striving to meet the challenges of Clery Act and Title IX compliance while prioritizing the well-being of their communities.

Lt. Raymond Mendez (Ret.)

Lt. Raymond Mendez is a seasoned law enforcement professional with extensive expertise in law enforcement administration, complex investigations, civil procedures, risk management, and compliance with federal mandates such as the Clery Act. His comprehensive understanding of institutional safety, combined with his strong educational foundation, has positioned him as a trusted leader in campus safety and compliance.

Lt. Mendez’s academic credentials include graduating from the Executive Leadership Institute at Claremont Graduate University’s Drucker School of Management, earning an M.A. in Leadership and Organizational Studies from Azusa Pacific University, and a B.A. in Criminal Justice from California State University, San Bernardino.

A proven leader, Lt. Mendez served as Administrative Division Commander, overseeing key departments and bureaus with responsibilities that included strategic planning, performance evaluations, personnel management, and communication. As a founding member of the Clery Committee at the California University of Science and Medicine, Lt. Mendez played a pivotal role in ensuring institutional compliance with federal reporting requirements and campus safety standards.

In addition, Lt. Mendez served as Operations Division Commander, where he managed the Patrol Division and Detective Bureau. As an Administrative Sergeant, he was responsible for internal investigations and compliance with public record mandates, further solidifying his expertise in transparency and adherence to regulatory requirements.

Lt. Mendez’s law enforcement experience includes serving as a Patrol Sergeant, Detective specializing in crimes against children, sexual assaults, and financial crimes, and as a Regional Narcotics Officer. His ability to conduct thorough investigations and lead multidisciplinary teams directly supports compliance with Clery and Title IX reporting and response obligations.

Beyond his operational roles, Lt. Mendez has served as an Active Shooter Instructor, SWAT Liaison for the Inland Valley SWAT team, and Honor Guard Unit Supervisor. His expertise in emergency response protocols and campus safety training aligns with the prevention and education mandates of both Title IX and the Clery Act.

Committed to fostering community engagement, Lt. Mendez has served on the Neighborhood Enrichment Team and as a Board Member of the Colton Police Officers Association. His leadership and collaborative approach ensure that institutions can meet safety and compliance standards while fostering trust within their communities.

Bobby Cruz

Bobby Cruz is a doctoral candidate at Claremont Graduate University specializing in Applied Microeconomics with a focus on policy analysis, law, and crime. As the Research & Development Fellow at Title IX Consulting Group, Mr. Cruz plays a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission by driving research initiatives and supporting strategic development across all operational areas. His role involves collaborating closely with the CEO, development teams, marketing teams, and social media teams to refine strategies, enhance processes, and ensure the accuracy and impact of the company’s content, online presence, and expert reports.

Mr. Cruz’s work centers on addressing systemic challenges related to Title IX compliance by leveraging data-driven insights to develop innovative strategies that promote equity and accountability. He conducts foundational research that not only informs Title IX Consulting Group’s online platforms and outreach efforts but also supports the organization’s expert analyses and solutions for educational institutions.

With extensive experience as a Research Assistant at Claremont Graduate University’s Computational Justice Lab, Mr. Cruz has refined his expertise in advanced data analysis, econometrics, and machine learning. His research focuses on identifying systemic patterns in criminal justice, including recidivism and diversion programs, to create structured interventions and reforms. This analytical expertise informs his behind-the-scenes contributions to Title IX Consulting Group, ensuring that the organization’s strategies are rooted in evidence and best practices.

Through his interdisciplinary background and commitment to rigorous research, Mr. Cruz ensures that Title IX Consulting Group remains a leader in compliance and institutional accountability. His contributions as a Research & Development Fellow directly support the organization’s efforts to deliver tailored solutions, improve internal processes, and create safer, more equitable educational environments nationwide.