“Kathryn Nash’s ability to handle complex matters in a nuanced and thoughtful manner is outstanding,” said one client . “She takes the time to fully understand the organization and present solutions that are tailored to the needs of the institution.” Another client said, “Kathryn’s keen understanding of our university, mission and institutional goals has effectively informed her counsel to us. We deeply appreciate her communication style, wisdom and expertise.”

Kathryn Nash is a trusted advisor and chair of the firm’s Labor, Employment and Higher Education practice areas. She regularly counsels a broad spectrum of clients, including colleges, universities, K-12 schools and faith-based nonprofits. Her work covers a wide range of complex legal matters, including:

  • Borrower Defense to Repayment (BDR) claims
  • Child safety prevention and response
  • Clery
  • Faculty issues
  • Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
  • Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA)
  • Revising institutional policies
  • Sexual misconduct and harassment investigations
  • Student affairs
  • The Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (VAWA)
  • Title IX

Kathryn works closely with clients and colleagues to develop practical and legally compliant solutions. By understanding each client’s unique mission, she ensures her guidance addresses legal considerations and their decisions’ broader, real-world impact. She “aims to help clients navigate complex issues in a way that supports their long-term goals.”

Clients gain from Kathryn’s extensive knowledge of the higher education sector and clear guidance on addressing sensitive matters like child abuse allegations. Whether conducting investigations, reporting to government officials, notifying affected community members or reviewing past misconduct cases, she provides clients with confidence and clarity in navigating complex issues.

Her legal counsel extends beyond education and nonprofits, as Kathryn also advises businesses on a range of employment matters, including:

  • Affirmative action plans
  • Child labor issues
  • Disability and leave issues
  • Employee handbooks and policies
  • Employment and severance agreements
  • Independent contractor arrangements
  • Non-compete agreements
  • Reductions in Force (RIFs)
  • Terminations
  • Unemployment claims
  • Wage and hour issues

As a litigator, Kathryn represents clients in court and administrative proceedings involving employment and student affairs-related disputes. She also assists clients in responding to state and federal audits concerning affirmative action and wage and hour compliance.

Sought after by the media, Kathryn’s insights have appeared in The Economist, The Atlantic and various local media outlets. She is recognized for her deep knowledge of Title IX, VAWA and sexual violence in educational settings, and has earned notable recognition, including being named one of Minnesota’s Attorneys of the Year by Minnesota Lawyer for her innovative approach to advising educational institutions.

trainED

Kathryn co-founded trainED™, a nationally recognized training and compliance program for higher education institutions. trainED™ provides online modules that help institutions meet their Title IX and VAWA training obligations for students, faculty and staff. Her leadership in this area has positioned Kathryn as an authority on campus sexual violence, with the Minneapolis Star Tribune describing her as a “leading national expert on campus sexual assault.”

“Kathryn is a leader in the higher education industry, especially when it relates to employment matters,” said one client. “She is well respected for her energy, creativity and dedication. Her leadership in developing trainED, a training and investigation arm of Lathrop GPM, is known industrywide in higher education and relied on for training and investigations nationally.”

To learn more about trainED™, visit https://trainedsolutions.com/.

When asked…

Why did you become a lawyer?

I became an attorney because I enjoy partnering with clients to tackle complex issues and find workable solutions. I’m passionate about problem-solving, and the law gives me the perfect opportunity to help clients navigate challenging situations and achieve their goals.

What do you do outside of work?

I love spending time with my family. We enjoy playing board games, and I’m always on the sidelines cheering for my kids at their soccer games and other activities. I also have a passion for baking, and when we get the chance, we love to travel and explore new places.