A Feature in TNG’s 25th Anniversary Series by Richard T. (Rick) Olshak, M.S.
As a first-generation college student, I never imagined myself attending college, much less pursuing a career in higher education. Everything changed when I met the dean of students at my college. Their ability to guide students, help them with tough decisions, and uncover their potential deeply inspired me. I knew I wanted to do the same. What began as a single moment of inspiration grew into a 25-year career dedicated to supporting students through my work in student affairs—and ultimately led me to Title IX.
My journey led me to join the Association of Title IX Administrators (ATIXA) Advisory Board at its inception, where I made meaningful contributions to the field. Now, as a Senior Consultant with TNG, I feel a deep sense of fulfillment, having come full circle in my mission to empower and support others.
The Willingness to Innovate
Twenty-five years ago, Brett A. Sokolow, J.D., Chair of the TNG Board of Directors and the ATIXA Advisory Board, had a prescient vision for TNG. He anticipated shifts in the legal and political landscape and proposed a new paradigm. For me, his foresight was invaluable; I never doubted that he knew exactly what he was talking about. Every time I read pieces written by Brett and his colleagues, I find them insightful, accurate, and incredibly useful. Brett had the ideas, and their shared expertise and brain trust brought it to life.
None of us could have foreseen (except Brett, maybe) just how complex and reactionary the Title IX field would become. Yet, as the profession evolved, TNG and ATIXA filled an increasingly critical gap. I can’t imagine where we’d collectively be without the strength and support ATIXA provides. Surely, in a field with such a high turnover, that rate would be higher. We’ve created a lifeline for those of us navigating this challenging work. There’s comfort in knowing you’re in the trenches with the most capable practitioners—professionals who genuinely understand your world. That sense of solidarity has always been a source of encouragement.
What stands out most to me is ATIXA’s flexibility and ability to navigate an unpredictable environment. This has been incredibly valuable. We don’t repeat the same recycled advice. Instead, guidance is tailored to the moment and evolves with the situation. Sometimes, that means acknowledging uncertainty and committing to deeper exploration. That kind of honesty and transparency fosters trust and makes a big difference for practitioners like me.
The TNG Partners Who Inspired Me
Some of the most inspiring people in my life are the ones who saw potential in me before I did. Saundra (Saunie) K. Schuster, J.D., M.S., Partner at TNG and President of ATIXA, my first mentor, was one of those people. She didn’t wait for me to ask for guidance; she simply stepped into the role. From the beginning of my career, I’ve admired her more than words can express. Watching her handle challenges with grace, even at personal cost, taught me lessons I wish I had understood sooner.
I also want to acknowledge W. Scott Lewis, J.D., Managing Partner at TNG and Chair of the NABITA Advisory Board, who has steadfastly offered both professional and personal support for many years and through many complex situations.
It wasn’t just Saunie and Scott. Daniel C. Swinton, J.D., Ed.D., Chief Consulting Officer and Partner at TNG, along with many other colleagues, have supported me in my professional development and supported Brett’s vision for TNG. My journey to TNG wasn’t easy and came with challenges, but every twist and turn has been worth it. The connections I’ve made along the way have shaped me personally and professionally, and for that, I am grateful.
Transitioning from Member to Consultant
Becoming a Senior Consultant at TNG has been humbling. Working daily with the most skilled and innovative minds in the field challenges me, grounds me, broadens my thinking, and reminds me of how much I still have to learn as a professional rather than focusing solely on what I have to teach. It’s inspiring to witness, and in a very refreshing way, it keeps me on my toes. I’m accustomed to being the senior figure in an organization—the one people turn to for advice and guidance. But here, I walk into a room and recognize how fortunate I am to work alongside such remarkable talent.
Primum Non Nocere through ATIXA and NABITA
TNG and its member associations, ATIXA and the National Association for Behavioral Intervention and Threat Assessment (NABITA), are deeply intertwined. While the associations support various fields, they share a common mission: not only mitigating harm but also actively preventing it.
What I appreciate about both organizations is the sense of intentionality in the work. Too often, our approaches to complex issues inadvertently lead to harm; however, with ATIXA and NABITA, there is a steadfast commitment to not contributing to the problem. Instead, the focus is on providing equitable, thoughtfully crafted solutions that have a meaningful impact.
This commitment is encapsulated well in Hippocrates’ concept primum non nocere, first, do no harm. Our work carries the potential for unintended consequences, yet we must ensure that we aren’t merely accepting harm as an inevitable part of the process. Too often, the term “process” is used as a shield to sidestep difficult conversations or justify decisions that hurt individuals. This mindset is unhelpful and, ultimately, harmful. The most effective way to minimize collateral damage is to make the process transparent, predictable, and grounded in integrity for everyone involved.
The Future of Compliance
It’s time to move beyond the cycle of extremes and embrace thoughtful, constructive dialogue on civil rights. Keeping up with federal regulations, state laws, and best practices can be daunting, especially as rules continue to evolve across states, regions, and circuits. To address this challenge, we should focus on the importance of transparency, predictability, and integrity. The future of civil rights must rest on shared principles rather than reductionist compliance obligations. We must be able to depend on prioritizing people and principles that withstand political turbulence.
For higher education, the challenge is to sustain profound discourse, debate, and critical thinking amidst societal flux, despite the traditionally risk-averse nature of educational institutions. In the short term, our focus should be on detoxifying the work we do to overcome the divisive environment around us. Above all, the priority must be supporting the individuals directly affected by our efforts, ensuring our work avoids harm and drives lasting progress.
Join us in celebrating TNG’s 25th Anniversary at www.tngconsulting.com.