Equal Opportunity

The Office of Equal Opportunity and Access ensures that University policies and procedures are in compliance with applicable federal, statewide, and local civil rights laws. Our office also investigates charges and allegations of discrimination and harassment.  We provide leadership and resources to help ensure that no person is discriminated against or harassed on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, marital status, age, disability, citizenship, veteran status, or genetic information in matters of admissions, employment, housing, services, or in educational programs or activities which Northwestern operates.

The Office of Equal Opportunity and Access is responsible for processing reasonable accommodation requests for faculty and staff who are or have become disabled. 

Office responsibilities:

• Investigate complaints of unlawful discrimination in admissions, employment, and within University-sponsored events.
• Provide access to University services.
• Represent the University before federal and state agencies on issues related to affirmative action, equal opportunity, and diversity.
• Develop and implement the University’s Affirmative Action Plan in collaboration with other campus units.
• Help recruit and retain women, persons with disabilities and other under-represented groups, closing the gap on workplace disparities.
• Provide training in equal opportunity, the Americans with Disabilities Act, diversity and other topics related to workplace equality.
• Provide assistance and advice to the Northwestern community on diversity and inclusion issues, discrimination, and harassment.
• Advise faculty, staff and students who believe they have been subjected to harassment or discrimination.
• Serve as an informal resource to faculty, students, and staff along with our community, in building bridges of tolerance, mutual respect, and understanding.

Contact Us

Feel free to contact our office if you have any questions, concerns, or if you need further assistance.

Address: 720 University Place, Evanston, IL 60208

Phone: 847-491-7458

Staff:

Jannifer Crittendon, Director 847-491-7461 jannifer.crittendon@northwestern.edu

Tasha Shelton,  EEO Specialist 847-467-3024 t-shelton@northwestern.edu

Tina Feliciano Curry, Affirmative Action Coordinator 847-467-0268 t-feliciano@northwestern.edu