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Office of Institutional Equity

Our Vision and Values

The Office of Institutional Equity (OIE) envisions a university community in which every individual has equal opportunity to learn, work, and contribute, and where full inclusion and respect for all people fosters an environment free from discrimination, harassment and retaliation. OIE values the Kansas State University Principles of Community, equity, diversity, and inclusiveness, for all members of Kansas State University. The result of providing equal access will be students, faculty, and staff collaborating to fulfill our mission as a land grant university.

Function of the OIE

OIE staff provide shared leadership, guidance, and collaboration with the university community to promote human and intellectual diversity. We do this by:

  • Collaborating with partners to ensure Complainants and Respondents are aware of support and assistance services or resources that may be available to them because they are involved in a concern under the University's Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Harassment, and Procedure for Reviewing Complaints PPM 3010.
  • Using an administrative review team approach, OIE evaluates reports concerning violations of PPM 3010, on the university's campus or in university-sponsored programs or activities; promptly conducts an impartial and thorough administrative review, if necessary; and recommends equitable resolution of complaints as appropriate.
  • Cooperating with the university community in order to implement applicable state and federal civil rights laws and regulations. This includes implementation and oversight of policies and practices consistent with federal and state mandates regarding equal access, equal employment and educational opportunities for all persons, without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, ancestry, disability, genetic information, military status or veteran status.
  • Engaging in comprehensive non-discrimination education and awareness throughout the university. This includes but is not limited to, supporting equal access, equitable treatment, and the prevention of prohibited discrimination, harassment, sexual violence, stalking and retaliation as well as education focused on Title IX and responsible employee training.
  • Affirmative Action planning in partnership with campus leadership in order to comply with Federal requirements. This includes shared cooperation with Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) educational programs that promote diversity and inclusion. OIE collaborates on good faith efforts to create a more diverse workforce to further enrich the university experience.