Angela Catena named new Title IX coordinator
Angela Catena has been named the Title IX coordinator for Virginia Tech’s Office for Equity and Accessibility (OEA). She assumed her new role on Dec. 10.
Harrison Blythe, the interim Title IX coordinator after Katie Polidoro left in the fall, resumed his other role as the director of compliance and conflict resolution upon her arrival.
“We appreciate Harrison’s work with our Title IX team during this transition,” said Kelly Oaks, associate vice president for equity and accessibility. “Harrison is a tireless advocate for civil rights and has been instrumental in advancing our institutional commitment to an environment free from discrimination and harassment.”
Catena is a dynamic and results-driven leader with more than 13 years of experience in higher education, previously serving as Title IX coordinator at the University of New Mexico (UNM) where she specialized in sexual harassment prevention, Violence Against Women Act compliance, and nondiscrimination. While there, she implemented groundbreaking policies to support institutional equity. Prior to UNM, Catena held roles in teaching, training, and advocacy at Arizona State University as a clinical assistant professor and the UNM LoboRESPECT Advocacy Center as a training and development specialist, where her trauma-informed approach to education and policy development had lasting impacts.
“Angela has a long career in fostering gender equity and civil rights, and she will provide strong leadership to our university and OEA,” Oaks said.
As Virginia Tech’s director of Title IX compliance, she aims to lead with compassion and integrity, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations while promoting innovative strategies that advance access to the university’s programs and activities.
“I am passionate about building trust through transparent processes and meaningful engagement. I am excited to be part of the Hokie Nation and look forward to collaborating with partners across campus to enhance Title IX compliance,” Catena said.
She holds a Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision, a master's degree in community counseling, and bachelor's degree in psychology. She has received national recognition for her expertise in Title IX, trauma-informed care, and civil rights and contributed to panels, presentations, and publications that have helped shape the field.
“True leadership is measured by the positive change we inspire in others,” said Catena. “At Virginia Tech, I strive to build a community where our commitment to Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) guides everything we do.”
Catena is working closely with Blythe to accomplish a smooth transition in leadership while he resumes his other role in the Office for Equity and Accessibility.
