Appalachian State University
PAE-6: Diversity and Equity Coordination

The Multicultural Center Advisory Board is comprised of students, faculty, and staff members who are committed to achieving the mission of the Multicultural Center while maintaining its purpose. The Board assists in decision-making regarding the programs that the Office of Multicultural Student Development will host, oversees its operating budget, and when possible, assists with the recruitment and retention efforts for Appalachian State University. Members of the board also evaluate the programming efforts. Additionally, this group reviews applications for consideration for exhibits to be housed in the Multicultural Center. Another function of this committee is to make decisions regarding opportunities for program co-sponsorship. The Multicultural Center Advisory Board gives individuals an opportunity to provide the Office of Multicultural Student Development with input on cultural programming and allocating funds for co-sponsorship activities. Some of the programs that the Advisory Board members typically assist with are the Diversity Series/Captain's Forum, Black History Month, the Annual MLK Commemoration Program, and the Kwanzaa Celebration and Feast as well as other collaborative initiatives. Membership is open to any Appalachian State University student, or faculty/staff for one year and is renewable based on active participation and attendance at monthly meetings.

Dr. Cameron Lippard, Sociology Dr. Kim Gunter, English Carter Hammett-McGarry, University College Kim Mitchell, Center for Student Involvement and Leadership Tina Parlier, Registrars Office Maranda Maxey, Office of Disability Services

The Office of Equity, Diversity, and Compliance is charged with developing, sustaining, and extending living, learning, and working environments that are fair, inclusive, and welcoming for all members of the Appalachian State University community. Equitable access to education for all students is an institutional imperative, as is the vigorous recruitment of an increasingly diverse faculty and staff. The Office celebrates and cultivates diversity in all its aspects through education, outreach, and the building of community. Concerns about unlawful harassment brought by any member of the university community are addressed by an equity officer and brought to resolution if indicated. And, because education is the cornerstone of this institution, the training of all employees to recognize and prevent discrimination in the workplace is integral to creating and sustaining a vital culture that extends equal opportunity for all people to learn, work, and grow to their fullest potential.

Linda provides advice and counsel to academic and administrative units and university constituencies on all matters related to affirmative action and equal employment opportunity. Linda oversees the AA/EEO components of EPA job searches on campus, closely monitors the university’s AA/EEO plans, and reviews university policies and practices for compliance with state and federal law. Linda responds to complaints of harassment and/or discrimination filed by university employees and students. She conducts investigations in accordance with the university’s nondiscrimination policies and assists with dispute resolution. Linda is available to provide educational and professional development programs on issues related to affirmative action, equal employment opportunity and other equity issues.