Because of Kingdom Principles' status as a 501(c)(4) nonprofit, it does not have to reveal its donors, but a spokesman for the group confirmed Steward's involvement this week.

Such lobbyist hiring sprees are not uncommon for entities who have interests before the state. Better Together, the group seeking a merger between St. Louis County and the city of St. Louis, has also hired a squadron of lobbyists, for example.

The show of force comes as public and private colleges around the state — and some associated student groups — continue to blast the pending legislation that would afford those facing discipline by college officials more hearing room privileges.

Two advocates for Title IX changes want cases routed to their wives’ courtroom "It unquestionably creates a perceived conflict," said Rep. Gina Mitten of Richmond Heights, who is the ranking Democrat on the House committee considering the measure.

The measure would allow either party to a complaint to transfer their case out of their school and to the state Administrative Hearing Commission, a formal process that would open complaints up to public scrutiny. Most Title IX complaints are handled informally, officials say.