Office of Institutional Equity (OIE)
The Office of Institutional Equity (OIE) reviews concerns related to discrimination and harassment based on age, color, gender, gender identity, disability status, height, marital status, national origin, political persuasion, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, and weight under the University's Anti-Discrimination Policy (ADP) and Policy on Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct (RVSM). The Office of the University Ombudsperson is here as a confidential resource for any student going through this process. While we do not serve as advocates for students through this process, our job is to advocate for fairness and due process. Students, instructors, or other community members are encouraged to reach out to our office for assistance in understanding policies and procedures at MSU. Additional information about OIE policies and procedures can be found at https://oie.msu.edu/.
What Happens During this Process?
Reports of discrimination, relationship violence, or sexual misconduct can be filed through OIE. Please see their website here (https://oie.msu.edu/file-a-report/index.html). Investigators will review reports and conduct investigations as appropriate. You can find detailed OIE policies and procedures on their website: https://oie.msu.edu/policies/index.html.
Is the Office of the Ombudsperson a confidential space?
Yes, staff in the Office of the University Ombudsperson are considered confidential under MSU policy and are not mandated reporters. This means that our office can serve as a resource to students who have questions about the RVSM or ADP process, whether you are considering filing a report, or are otherwise involved in the process.
What if I feel as though my rights have been violated during this process?
You are welcome to consult the Office of the University Ombudsperson at any step of the process to educate yourself on your rights as a student. While the Office of the University Ombudsperson does not act as an advocate for students throughout the investigation process, it does act as an advocate for fairness and due process in this and all other university procedures involving students.
Will the Ombudsperson accompany to meetings with OIE Investigators or staff members?
No, staff from the University Ombudsperson’s office will not accompany students into interviews, hearings, or serve as student advocates during a conduct process. Staff from the Office of the University Ombudsperson will, however, be happy to serve as a resource for you regarding OIE policies and processes.
Where can I find more information?
You can find additional information on the OIE website https://oie.msu.edu/.
Are there other confidential resources on campus?
Yes, please see the list below. Feel free to contact the Office of the University Ombudsperson if you are unsure which resource will best fit your needs.
MSU Center for Survivors
Student Services Building
556 East Circle Drive, Room 207
East Lansing, MI 48824
(517) 355-3551 (office)
(517) 372-6666 (24-hour crisis line)
https://centerforsurvivors.msu.edu/
MSU Counseling Center
Student Services Building
556 East Circle Drive, Room 207
East Lansing, MI 48824
(517) 355-8270
https://caps.msu.edu/
MSU Safe Place
Administrative Office:
219 Wilson Road, G-60 Wilson Hall
East Lansing, MI 48825
(517) 355-1100
noabuse@msu.edu
http://safeplace.msu.edu/
MSU Psychological Clinic
316 Psychology Rd, #151
East Lansing, MI 48825
(517) 355-9564
https://psychology.msu.edu/clinic/
Couple and Family Therapy Clinic
138 Service Rd
East Lansing, MI 48824
(517) 432-2272
https://hdfs.msu.edu/clinic
Employee Assistance Program
Olin Health Center
463 East Circle Drive, Room 330
East Lansing, MI 48824-1037
(517) 355-4506
https://eap.msu.edu/
