About this office
In keeping with the long-standing traditions of the college and the spirit and letter of the federal and state equal opportunity civil rights laws, Vassar College is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive working and learning environment. This commitment extends beyond mere compliance with the law and requires a strong program of equal opportunity and affirmative action in virtually all aspects of college life. To achieve these goals, Vassar provides a network of resources to ensure compliance and clarity about equal opportunity and affirmative action efforts for each segment of the college, offers ongoing programs of education and training, and provides opportunities for grievance resolution related to equity, discrimination, harassment, and sexual harassment.
The Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action supports and enhances Vassar College’s commitment to inclusion, equity, and excellence by providing consultation, guidance, and support to members of the college community on affirmative action, equal employment opportunity, civil rights, Title IX, and the Americans with Disabilities Act/Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Reporting directly to the president, the director of equal opportunity and the faculty director of affirmative action, carry out the work of the office in consultation and collaboration with the Committee on Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action, members of the senior staff, faculty, administration, and students.
The Director of Equal Opportunity is responsible for overseeing equal opportunity and affirmative action efforts and policies as they relate to students, administrators, and staff, and providing oversight and assistance in addressing concerns of alleged discrimination, harassment, or sexual harassment involving students, administrators, or staff. The Faculty Director of Affirmative Action is responsible for overseeing and coordinating equal employment opportunities and affirmative action efforts and policies for the faculty, and for providing oversight and guidance on issues of alleged discrimination, harassment, or sexual harassment involving members of the faculty. Individuals may explore options for resolution, including filing a formal grievance or pursuing informal resolution measures, such as mediation, facilitated dialogue, other forms of conflict resolution. Discussing a concern or complaint with the faculty director of affirmative action or the director of equal opportunity does not commit one to making a formal charge, and neither officer makes a final determination of the guilt or innocence of anyone involved in a complaint.