3.01 / Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action

Effective: July 01, 1997Last Revised: August 22, 2023

  1. Purpose

    To set forth the University’s policies regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action.

  2. Policy

    As the state’s most diverse learning and research institution, Wichita State University (WSU) must continually address issues of diversity and multiculturalism. Every member of the university community is expected to engage in action that leads towards the development of a more inclusive community. In line with the university’s mission, proactive efforts towards increasing diversity and the elimination of discrimination are necessary.

    In accordance with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Equal Pay Act of 1963, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Executive Order 11246, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, The Americans with Disabilities Act, the Vietnam Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, the Jobs for Veterans Act of 2002, the Kansas Acts Against Discrimination, the Kansas Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and all other applicable civil rights and non-discrimination statutes, WSU prohibits discrimination in its employment practices, or in its educational programs or activities. See Policy 3.02 / Notice of Nondiscrimination. WSU also prohibits retaliation against any person making a complaint of discrimination or against any person involved or participating in the investigation of any such allegation.

    1. Equal Opportunity

      WSU is committed to providing an equal opportunity for all qualified individuals to be considered for employment, benefits and conditions of employment, and educational programs and activities, regardless of age (40 years or older), ancestry, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, parental status, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a veteran. A university environment providing equal opportunity in hiring and all conditions of employment will make strides towards the elimination of discrimination.

    2. Affirmative Action

      WSU is committed to taking specific, result-oriented steps to increase the number of historically underrepresented persons and increase the overall diversity. Cultural and intellectual diversity are critical components of preeminent learning communities. WSU will actively focus on and encourage applications from underrepresented group members and will strive to provide a positive and supportive environment for members of these groups.

      WSU shall monitor its efforts to increase diversity through its Affirmative Action Program. The university’s AAP shall outline strategic initiatives and set goals to increase the representation of underrepresented group members.

      The Office of Civil Rights, Title IX & ADA Compliance is charged with the responsibility of responding to complaints of discrimination, monitoring university procedures regarding equal opportunity, setting goals, and monitoring and evaluating the university’s progress towards its affirmative action goals.

    The full text of the Affirmative Action Plan is available from the Office of Civil Rights, Title IX & ADA Compliance.

    CONTACT:

    Associate Vice President and University Title IX Coordinator
    Office of Civil Rights, Title IX & ADA Compliance
    Lindquist Hall, Room 208
    Telephone: (316) 978-3186
    courtney.mchenry@wichita.edu

  3. Revision Dates

    1. November 25, 2019
    2. May 3, 2022 (maintenance updates only)
    3. February 28, 2023 (maintenance updates only)
    4. April 25, 2023 (maintenance updates only)
    5. August 22, 2023 (maintenance updates only)