Cathy Downes is a strategic and innovative leader with more than 25 years of experience in student affairs, compliance, case management, federal and institutional policy, risk assessment, and crisis response. She is a seasoned Title IX and civil rights investigator, specializing in conducting impartial, trauma-informed investigations in higher education. 

Before joining TNG, Downes served as the Executive Director of Compliance and Title IX Coordinator at Stetson University and held roles as Associate Dean of Students and Title IX Coordinator at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU). She led and supervised over 200 investigations, developed campus-wide Title IX programs, and trained staff, faculty, and students in inclusive, trauma-informed practices. While at ERAU, she developed customized, integrated Title IX and Title VII training for students preparing to work as commercial airline pilots, instructor pilots, air traffic controllers, and those commissioning as military officers through the ROTC program.  

Known for her analytical rigor and strong writing skills, Downes led and coordinated ERAU’s institutional response to an investigation by the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and collaborated with campus partners to author the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) reaccreditation report. Her expertise in gender equity issues was instrumental for ERAU’s successful NCAA membership application. She provided critical guidance on conducting a comprehensive gender-equity analysis. While at Stetson, she wrote strategic plans to address concerns identified in climate survey findings and implemented an action plan, resulting in rapid improvements. She enjoys creating innovative workshops and training for special populations and delivers clear, evidence-based reports and strategic plans that accurately apply policy and reflect her commitment to equity and due process. 

Downes holds an M.S. in Counseling and Human Development and a B.S. in Communication, both from Radford University.  

She is a Certified Safe Zone Trainer and Lean In Girls Facilitator.  

She resides in Florida and serves on the board of Simon’s Angels, a nonprofit organization that supports pediatric transplant patients and their families. She also leads a women’s wellness coaching practice focused on sustainable health strategies.