Director of Civil Rights Compliance & Access
Greetings Generals!
I am proud to serve as your Director of the Office of Civil Rights Compliance and Access. This position was established in October 2020 by Chancellor Paul Coreil and the Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Committee to work collaboratively across the university and the local community to assess and enhance LSUA’s institutional infrastructure, foster equity, inclusion, and belongingness, deliver diversity education and design and implement a diversity action plan.
In partnership with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership Team (DEILT), the Civil Rights Compliance and Access Director collaborates horizontally and vertically to support students, faculty, and staff through initiatives and programs that focus on the strategic development of structures, policies, and practices that promote inclusive excellence, faculty and staff diversity, racial equality, social justice, gender equity and disability access. The office also provides vision, leadership, and counsel on matters of diversity, equity and inclusion, equal employment opportunity, and affirmative action.
Key to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance and Access’s work is enhancing the learning experience by exposing and challenging all of us to examine, contemplate, and value the ideas, experiences, and practices of those who are different from ourselves. Through partnerships with campus units we are creating welcoming and respectful environments where everyone can thrive and achieve their full potential.
I believe that we have a shared responsibility to ensure that equity and justice are embedded in every aspect of our university – especially the decision-making process. We can only realize our institution’s highest principles through inclusive excellence for all.
Since its official launch in July 2021, the office has implemented diversity training within and beyond our campus community, developed and implemented search committee guiding principles, and executed inclusive programming and activities with still more on the horizon.
Please take a moment to explore the website, where you will find an array of information and resources and get involved in events, programs, initiatives, and training.
Sincerely,
Connie R. Cooper, M.Ed. Proud LSUA Alumni – Go Generals!