Commemorating Dr. Bernice Sandler: A New Chapter for ATIXA's Grant Program
In a significant move to honor the legacy of Dr. Bernice "Bunny" Sandler, the Association of Title IX Administrators (ATIXA) has renamed its research grant program to the Dr. Bernice Sandler Title IX Research Grant. This adjustment reflects the continued influence Dr. Sandler had in promoting gender equity in education.
Dr. Sandler, who passed away on January 5, 2019, was a pivotal figure in the establishment of Title IX, the law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs. Her relentless advocacy and pioneering efforts in the late 1960s highlighted the systemic discrimination women faced in educational spheres and prompted legislative action that paved the way for Title IX’s enactment in 1972.
As one of ATIXA's founding members and a celebrated speaker at its inaugural conference in 2012, Dr. Sandler's connection to the organization and its mission is profound. Her lifelong commitment to gender equity in academia earned her the title of "Godmother of Title IX." According to Brett A. Sokolow, J.D., Chair of the TNG Board and ATIXA Advisory Board, Dr. Sandler’s legacy continues to inspire research that enhances understanding and upholds the foundational promise of equity within educational institutions.
The Dr. Bernice Sandler Title IX Research Grant program, now entering its tenth year, aims to facilitate innovative research initiatives that align with Title IX’s objectives. Grants worth $2,500 will be awarded to researchers—whether individuals or teams—whose work contributes valuable insights that resonate with both historical contexts and contemporary Title IX issues. This initiative springs from ATIXA’s vision to foster understanding and enhance fair practices within Title IX compliance.
Applications for the grant are open to both ATIXA members and non-members, with submissions due by July 15, 2026. This accessibility emphasizes ATIXA’s commitment to broader engagement with research on gender equity topics. A review of the grant proposals will assess the scope and potential impact on the field, ensuring that the awarded research benefits the discourse surrounding Title IX and its implications on gender equality today.
Moreover, recipients of the grant will have opportunities to present their findings at ATIXA’s Annual Conference, on the organization’s blog, or through recorded webinars aimed at enriching the members-only resource library. These avenues not only disseminate research findings but also honor Dr. Sandler’s influence as a thought leader in gender equity.
ATIXA is dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment where educational professionals can share resources, strategies, and best practices to ensure Title IX compliance and enforcement. As epitomized in ATIXA's efforts, Dr. Sandler’s activism continues to inspire new generations of scholars and advocates who strive for fairness and equity within education. For more information about the grant program and to access submission guidelines, interested parties can visit www.atixa.org.
In conclusion, the renaming of the grant program in Dr. Bernice Sandler's honor not only celebrates her remarkable contributions to gender equity but also reinforces the commitment of ATIXA to uphold her legacy through continued scholarship and advocacy in Title IX compliance. It marks a vital step in ensuring that the mission of equity and justice in education persists, reflecting the ideals for which Dr. Sandler fervently fought throughout her life.