Cathy Palmer was employed as an assistant to the head librarian at JSU, a state college in the state of Jefferson. During the first ten years of her employment with JSU libraries, Cathy had a number of responsibilities related to the administration and operation of the library. She worked 40 hours per week and earned $60,000 annually. Cathy reported directly to the head librarian, Debby McAllister, who made $76,000 annually.

During her eleventh year, Debby McAllister retired. After her retirement and while JSU searched for another head librarian, Cathy was appointed temporary acting head librarian. Cathy performed all of the McAllister's responsibilities for no additional pay. Finally, after one year of searching and interviewing candidates, JSU selected a new head librarian named Ronald Pent. Cathy did not know Ronald Pent previously, but discovered he was formerly head of the engineering library situated on a separate part of JSU's campus. Ronald Pent's starting salary as head of JSU's libraries is $70,000.

Cathy wonders whether she has grounds to file a discrimination lawsuit. Using the statutes discussed in your book, identify the statute under which Cathy might be able to bring a case against JSU. Explain the facts and circumstances that would support Cathy's claim. Next, identify three ways JSU might defend the pay disparity between Cathy and Ronald Pent.