Student Affairs

Student conduct association names Larkin 2026 chair of Sexual Misconduct Institute

Katy Larkin Credit: Penn State. Creative Commons

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Katy Larkin, senior director of Student Accountability and Conflict Response at Penn State, has been appointed chair of the Association of Student Conduct Administration’s Sexual Misconduct Institute for 2026.

In her role as chair, Larkin will provide leadership for the national institute, which supports higher education professionals working in sexual misconduct response, Title IX compliance and student conduct administration. She has been involved with the institute since its reintroduction in 2024, serving as faculty and contributing to program development.

“Katy’s appointment reflects her expertise, passion, and leadership in student accountability and sexual misconduct response management, as well as Penn State’s ongoing commitment to advancing best practices in higher education,” said Danny Shaha, assistant vice president and dean of students at Penn State.

The Sexual Misconduct Institute, hosted by the Association of Student Conduct Administration, brings together practitioners from across the country for advanced training and professional development. The 2026 institute will take place in November in Washington, D.C., and will include an advanced practitioner track and a Title IX certificate pathway.

Larkin joined Penn State in 2021 as senior director of the Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response, where she leads University-wide efforts related to student conduct, alternative resolution and institutional response to complex behavioral concerns. Her work focuses on fair, educational and trauma-informed approaches to student accountability.

“I am honored to serve as chair of the Sexual Misconduct Institute and to continue working alongside colleagues across the country who are committed to advancing equitable and effective practices in this field,” Larkin said.

Penn State’s Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response is a unit in the division of Student Affairs and plays a central role in fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive campus environment.

Student Affairs supports holistic student success through advocacy, education, engagement and care. With more than 30 programs and units, Student Affairs helps students thrive in and out of the classroom, discover community and belonging, build leadership skills and create lasting memories. All programs and events are open to all students, regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race or other protected class. Student Affairs is committed to building a community of belonging for all. Learn more about Student Affairs programs at studentaffairs.psu.edu.