Hamilton College, Director of Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance

Isaacson, Miller was proud to partner with Hamilton College on the appointment of Deborah E. Owens as Director of Title IX & Civil Rights Compliance.

Deborah is a higher education administrator with a long-standing commitment to building safe, supportive, and well-run campus communities. In this role, she oversees the College’s Harassment and Discrimination Policy and Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy. Debbie coordinates the activities of the Harassment and Sex-Based Discrimination Board. Previously at Canisius University as Title IX Coordinator and Associate Dean of Students, she led institutional efforts to respond to concerns with care and fairness, deliver meaningful education and training, and ensure compliance with Title IX, VAWA, New York State 129-b, and the Clery Act. Known for steady leadership and clear communication, Deborah partners across campus and with community organizations to strengthen processes, coordinate resources, and promote a culture of respect and accountability.

Across more than two decades in student affairs and campus operations—including leadership roles at D’Youville College in Title IX, event services, and residence life—Deborah has guided complex programs from planning through implementation, supervised and developed teams, and managed facilities, budgets, and preparedness efforts that keep campus life running smoothly. She brings a practical, student-centered lens to orientation and engagement, and a strong operational mindset to event and facilities coordination. Deborah holds an M.Ed. in College Counseling and Student Personnel from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a B.A. in German Studies/Zoology from SUNY Oswego, including study abroad in Würzburg, Germany.

Rebecca Kennedy led this search with Tiffany Weber, Kira Hamilton, and Cortnee Bollard.