Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Policy Statement

William & Mary (W&M), including the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (the university), is committed to compliance with all laws, federal, state or local, that require equal opportunity or affirmative action and that prohibit employment discrimination on the basis of age, sex/gender, race, color, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, disability, protected veteran status and other protected classifications (Equal Opportunity Laws). The university’s Policy on Discrimination, Harassment, Retaliation and Sexual Misconduct prohibits discrimination or harassment on the basis of any protected class and requires that employment decisions and actions be based on qualifications or performance related to job requirements. The university’s commitment to equal opportunity applies to all personnel actions including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, pay practices, benefits, disciplinary actions and terminations. W&M also modifies the application process as well as the jobs, work conditions and work environment for qualified employees with disabilities as required by law, under the Employee Reasonable Accommodation Policy and Procedure.

William & Mary applicants and employees may not be subjected to harassment, intimidation, threats, coercion, or discrimination because they have engaged in any of the following activities: (1) filing a complaint, (2) assisting or participating in an investigation, compliance evaluation, hearing, or any other activity relating to the administration of any Equal Opportunity Law, or (3) exercising any other right protected by any Equal Opportunity Law.

The university has written affirmative action programs. These programs set forth the policies, practices, and procedures, including the audit and reporting system, followed to ensure equal opportunity and affirmative action, and assign responsibility for implementing program activities. The written programs are available for inspection, upon request to [[askhr]], by any employee or applicant for employment.

The university invites employees who are disabled or protected veterans and wish to be included under our affirmative action program to inform the University Human Resources.  This self-identification is voluntary and confidential and may not result in adverse consequences of any sort.

Katherine A. Rowe

President