About OEO/AA
What is the OEO/AA?
All members of our University community have the right to a campus community free of discrimination and sexual misconduct.
To achieve this, the Office of Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action and Title IX implements and enforces the University’s policies prohibiting discrimination, sexual misconduct, and retaliation. The OEO/AA offers supports to those impacted; and investigates when necessary. The University and the OEO/AA are committed to a fair and equitable environment for all to participate in at the University.
What policies are enforced by the OEO/AA?
University policies apply to everyone who is affiliated with, accesses, or utilizes the University and its programs and activities. The Nondiscrimination policy is intended to ensure everyone, regardless of their protected class, has full and equal access to the University, consistent with state and federal law.
Specifically, the OEO/AA is responsible for compliance with University Policy 1-012, including the process for:
- addressing discrimination complaints according to Rule 1-012A,
- sexual misconduct complaints Rule 1-012B,
- requirements for disability accommodations consistent with Policy 5-117.
Who is covered by the University's Policies?
All members of the campus community (students, staff, faculty, vendors, patients, and visitors) have rights and responsibilities under the University’s nondiscrimination policies.
Affirmative Action
What is Affirmative Action?
Federal law requires that the University of Utah, as a recipient of federal funding, has certain obligations to take affirmative steps in the recruitment process, and that applicants and employees are provided equal opportunity in the hiring process and during their employment. Affirmative Action at the University of Utah promotes race and gender diversity in employment by recruiting women and minorities into the applicant pools.
Does affirmative action mean special preference is given to minority groups or that
there are quotas?
No. Affirmative Action at the University of Utah does not give people an advantage in getting hired or promoted. There are no "hiring quotas" and no special treatment should ever be given for any reason unrelated to job qualifications. Only the best person for the job should be hired or promoted. These decisions should never be based on someone's status, and all candidates must meet the minimum qualifications for the position.
Unfair Treatment
Not all types of unfair treatment are considered prohibited discrimination. Other policies may apply to other types of misconduct.
Where can I turn if I feel like my supervisor is treating me unfairly, but it doesn't fall into the protected categories?
You may want to contact your Human Resources Generalist or an Employee Relations Specialist to find out what your options and rights are for resolving issues you feel are not prohibited discrimination or sexual harassment.
- Abusive Conduct
- Boundaries in Professional Relationships