Faculty Handbook 2007-2008
Denison University first instituted an Affirmative Action Plan in 1977 for the purpose of reviewing College policies and practices to ensure equal opportunity in employment and education. Each revision of the plan since that time represents an active and ongoing commitment on the part of the institution to the philosophy and practice of nondiscrimination and affirmative action. Contained within the plan are policies and procedures that are meant to ensure equitable opportunities for job applicants, for current employees of the institution, and for students.
It is the philosophy of Denison University that affirmative action should mean more than mere compliance with laws and regulations; this plan validates affirmative action as an independent goal that benefits the University in numerous ways by helping us realize our mission of promoting principles of "rational choice, a firm belief in human dignity and compassion unlimited by cultural, racial, sexual, religious, and economic barriers." (Denison University Catalog).
The plan describes the philosophy and operation of affirmative action at Denison, including the following components: responsibilities of members of the University community for affirmative action: University nondiscrimination policies and statements; hiring polices and procedures, including goals and timetables for increasing the representation of members of targeted groups (women and minorities) and strategies for achieving those goals; formal and informal procedures for processing and resolving affirmative action-related grievances; other campus policies which relate to affirmative action, including policies on promotions, harassment, AIDS, and business relations (procedures for contractors, subcontractors and suppliers).
The ultimate responsibility for assuring the establishment and implementation of the Affirmative Action Plan rests with the President. Much of the responsibility for carrying out the specifics of the plan are delegated by the President to the Director of Institutional Equity and Diversity, who, acting with the authority of the President, shall take all necessary action to accomplish the goals of the Affirmative Action Program. In particular, the Provost with respect to the faculty, the Director of Human Resources with respect to the Supportive Operating Staff and Administrative Staff, and the Vice-President for Finance and Management with respect to outside contractors, are responsible for helping to meet these goals. Responsibilities of the Director of Institutional Equity and Diversity include but are not limited to the following:
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Overseeing the implementation of the Affirmative Action Plan and serving as a liaison for the University on Affirmative Action issues. Revising the Affirmative Action Plan and Hiring Procedures as needed.
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Maintaining current knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and regulations that pertain the equal employment opportunity and affirmative action.
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Monitoring all searches for faculty and administrative staff positions.
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Analyzing employment data in order to identify problem areas. Working with appropriate University officials and campus committees to evaluate personnel policies and set affirmative action hiring goals.
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Overseeing the operation of university grievance mechanisms related to complaints of employment discrimination and harassment. Mediation of conflicts between and among employees and students relating to these issues.
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Informing members of the University community about their rights and responsibilities with regard to equal employment opportunity and affirmative action.
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Supervising the evaluation of efforts and results made pursuant to the Affirmative Action Plan. Reporting on the progress of affirmative action goals to the University community.
Denison University does not engage in discrimination in its educational, student life, and employment policies against students, employees, or prospective employees, on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.
The University complies with the requirements of Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, The Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 as amended, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title IX of the Educational Amendments Act of 1972, the Veterans Readjustment Act of 1974, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, and all other applicable federal, state, and local statutes, ordinances, and regulations.