George Mason University
PA-6: Support for Underrepresented Groups

George Mason University is committed to providing equal opportunity and an educational and work environment free from any discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, pregnancy status or genetic information. George Mason University shall adhere to all applicable state and federal equal opportunity/affirmative action statutes and regulations.

The University is dedicated to ensuring access, fairness and equity for minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans (as covered by law) in its educational programs, related activities and employment. George Mason University shall thus maintain a continuing affirmative action program to identify and eliminate discriminatory practices in every phase of university operations.

Any employee who becomes aware of sexual harassment or other potentially discriminatory behavior must contact Compliance, Diversity, and Ethics (CDE).

Retaliation against an individual who has raised claims of illegal discrimination or has cooperated with an investigation of such claims is prohibited.

The Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Grievance Procedure is the responsibility of Compliance, Diversity and Ethics (CDE). The procedure assists the university in carrying out its responsibilities in administering and enforcing applicable federal and state laws and university policies related to nondiscrimination and investigation of complaints. . Any student, faculty member, staff employee, or visitor who feels he or she is the victim of harassment or other form of discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, retaliation, sex (including sexual harassment), national origin, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy status, or genetic information (GINA) can submit a grievance with CDE.

Established in 1987, Mason's Early Identification Program (EIP) serves as the college preparatory program. EIP provides access to educational resources for middle and high school students who will be the first in their families to attend a college or university. EIP empowers students to achieve their goal of attaining higher education, and succeeding. Our aim is to educate the whole student. We provide year-round academic enrichment, personal and social development, civic engagement, and leadership training opportunities. EIP ensures that students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and intellect to become lifelong learners, leaders, and responsible global citizens. EIP also engages families in the student’s academic experience and equip parents with insight and skills to help their students prepare for college.

Additionally, on May 1, 2016, the Office of Compliance, Diversity and Ethics (CDE) partnered with Human Resources Department to implement a number of hiring initiatives to improve diversity among Mason's faculty and staff. Search committee requirements and practices include:
- CDE work with search committees to provide a “diversity snapshot” of the applicant pool and provide technical assistance to panels;
- Search committee training to include segments on overcoming unconscious biases and assumptions within the candidate evaluation and selection process.
- Search committees are required to reflect the diversity of the community from a gender and race/ethnicity perspective.

The Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Multicultural Education (ODIME) engages the various Mason constituents in awareness and exploration of the diversity of our campus community, identity development, and global and cultural competencies. With student support and advocacy as a primary focal area for their work, they offer services, resources, and experiences that assist students in recognizing, cultivating, and actualizing their potential to thrive and succeed at Mason and beyond. ODIME serves as a resource to members of the Mason community who seek to strengthen their capacities to meaningfully engage and interact with people with different identities than their own and co-create an inclusive and welcoming campus environment.

The Student Transition Empowerment Program (STEP) is an initiative in the Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Multicultural Education (ODIME) created to enhance the recruitment, engagement and retention of first generation college students accepted to George Mason University. Their mission is to empower students through academic skills, access to resources, community building, self-discovery, and the global citizenship needed to compete in today’s college environment and beyond.

As part of George Mason University's continuing commitment to upholding the letter and spirit of the laws that ensure equal treatment of people with disabilities, the university established and maintains Disability Services. Under the administration of University Life, the center implements and coordinates reasonable accommodations and disability-related services that afford equal access to university programs and activities.

Website: http://ds.gmu.edu/

At the time of reporting, Mason was modifying and upgrading a previous program that supported and prepared students from underrepresented groups for careers as faculty members.

Data is for FY17.

Information on Gender Neutral housing can be found at https://housing.gmu.edu/apply/flex-housing.

Information on gender-neutral bathrooms can be found at http://lgbtq.gmu.edu