UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – The name of Penn State’s Affirmative Action Office (AAO) has been changed to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access (OEOA). The new name more accurately reflects the role and responsibilities of the office, while communicating the importance of ensuring that all members of the Penn State community are equally able to engage in their educational and occupational pursuits, according to Suzanne Adair, associate vice president for equal opportunity and access.
“Our office has been exploring this name change for a while and we’re happy to have a title that more clearly conveys the work we’re doing at the University,” Adair said. “We support Penn State’s strategic goals of advancing a diverse and inclusive community by providing guidance and responding to concerns, as we work to create an environment free from discrimination and harassment.”
The OEOA oversees the University’s compliance with federal and state non-discrimination laws. The OEOA also helps develop and provide education and training for University employees so they have the tools needed to foster a climate of respect, responsibility, inclusion and belonging at Penn State.
In addition, the OEOA plays a vital role in the recruitment and retention of a diverse workforce at Penn State, as they collaborate with units across the University to explore innovative approaches to achieve Penn State’s mission of supporting diverse communities through teaching, research and service.
Revisions to the office name are currently underway in the various places online and elsewhere where the name appears. It may take several months to fully introduce and familiarize the new moniker to the Penn State community. The contact information for the OEOA is below:
Office of Equal Opportunity and Access
328 Boucke Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-0471
Email: oeoa@psu.edu