Ashton Levert, a former student of Louisiana Christian University, has filed a lawsuit against the institution, alleging severe mishandling of her sexual harassment complaint. The complaint was lodged on January 13, 2025, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana. Levert accuses the university and a professor of creating a hostile educational environment and failing to adhere to Title IX regulations.
The lawsuit details disturbing allegations against Professor Enrico Canella, who is accused of inappropriate physical contact and sending unprofessional text messages that blurred boundaries and contributed to an unsafe educational atmosphere. Levert's claims include being subjected to unwanted physical interactions and receiving texts from Canella that were personal and unprofessional. Despite these serious allegations, the university allegedly failed to take appropriate action when Levert reported the harassment. Her mother submitted a formal complaint on February 2, 2024, but the response from university officials was inadequate and delayed.
Levert's experience with Louisiana Christian University's Title IX office was fraught with communication breakdowns and procedural failures. She alleges that her attempts to engage with university resources were ignored or inadequately addressed. For instance, her school email was deactivated while she sought assistance with financial aid issues, leaving her without support. Furthermore, when she attempted to reach out directly to Dr. Moorman at the Title IX office on February 22, she was informed that no investigation would occur due to her withdrawal from the university—a decision made without proper communication or consideration of her rights under Title IX.
The plaintiff claims that this exclusion from the investigative process constitutes deliberate indifference by LCU under federal law. She argues that the university's failure to provide transparency or follow grievance procedures—such as conducting live hearings or issuing written determinations—violated her rights and compounded her emotional distress.
In addition to seeking justice for herself, Levert highlights broader systemic issues within LCU's handling of sexual harassment cases. She notes that other students have faced similar challenges when attempting to file complaints under Title IX guidelines.
Levert is seeking damages for emotional distress and academic setbacks caused by LCU's actions. She also requests injunctive relief requiring the university to implement comprehensive policies addressing sexual harassment prevention and compliance with Title IX standards.
Representing Ashton Levert is attorney Jovontee Curlee from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The case is presided over by Judge JE-JPM in Case No.: 1:25-cv-00020-JE-JPM.