Equal Opportunity and Regulatory Compliance

WHAT WE DO

The University of Mississippi’s Office of Equal Opportunity & Regulatory Compliance (EORC) is responsible for compliance with federal laws and regulations pertaining to the fair treatment of faculty, staff, and students, which includes the application of Title IX and Title VII, and upholds equal employment opportunity to ensure equal access to the University.

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Unlawful Discrimination

The University does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Employees, students, applicants for admission or employment, or other participants in University of Mississippi programs or activities who believe they have been discriminated against or harassed are entitled to seek relief through the Office of Equal Opportunity & Regulatory Compliance.

If you need special assistance related to a disability, please contact the ADA Coordinator or visit our office at 120 Lester Hall.

 

Interim Title IX Coordinator

Marissa Watson

662-915-7045

mwatson9@olemiss.edu

ADA Coordinator

Billy Benson

662-915-7735

bbenson@olemiss.edu

Training

Our range of training sessions are designed to enhance understanding and compliance with key EORC policies.

For Employees

This training provides an overview of the process for requesting accommodations, what accommodations may be available, documentation that is typically needed, and how the University can support individuals with disabilities.

For Supervisors

This training focuses on supervisors’ responsibilities to recognize accommodation requests, refer employees to the accommodations process and provide accommodations in collaboration with EORC. This training will explain the process and a supervisor’s typical role in that process, emphasizing the University’s policies related to non-discrimination on the basis of disability.

This training covers the University of Mississippi’s general non-discrimination provisions, focusing on the University’s legal non-discrimination requirements as well as University policy and leading practices. This training can be adjusted to suit any group, but generally will provide an overview of the “protected statuses” identified by UM’s Non-Discrimination policy, including: race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

For Authorized Adults

This training provides an overview of the University of Mississippi’s Protection of Minors Policy, focusing on the supervision and reporting requirements as well as other noteworthy responsibilities of Authorized Adults working with minors in Youth Programs. This training can be adjusted to suit any program, environment, and age range of participants.

For Program Contacts and Directors

This training provides an overview of the University of Mississippi’s Protection of Minors Policy, focusing on the responsibilities of Program Contact and Program Directors when preparing, planning, and administering a Youth Program. This training can be adjusted to suit any program, environment, and age range of participants.

  • Americans with Disabilities Act

    The University of Mississippi is dedicated to providing equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities, adhering to federal and state laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). For assistance, employees should contact the Equal Opportunity and Regulatory Compliance (EORC) office for accommodations, while students should reach out to Student Disability Services

    ADA Information
  • Title IX

    The University of Mississippi follows Title IX guidelines, which prohibit sex-based discrimination, including sexual harassment and assault, in educational programs and activities for all genders. The University is committed to creating a safe environment free from sexual misconduct, implementing fair investigation procedures for Title IX complaints, and ensuring that all community members understand their rights and responsibilities under Title IX.

    Title IX Information
  • The Clery Act

    The Jeanne Clery Act requires colleges and universities to report campus crime data, support victims, and publicly outline safety policies and procedures. Institutions must publish an Annual Security Report (ASR) that includes crime statistics, policy statements, and information about prevention programs, emergency notifications, victim rights, and disciplinary processes, all to ensure transparency and improve campus safety.

    Clery
  • Protection of Minors

    To ensure proper supervision of minors on campus or in university programs, avoid one-on-one contact with them and report any suspected abuse or neglect to the Mississippi Department of Human Services and University Police. If you see something concerning a minor's health or safety, report it to the Title IX Coordinator immediately.

    Youth Protection
  • Search Committee Policies

    Serving on a Search Committee at the University of Mississippi helps ensure the institution's commitment to excellence by adhering to laws and policies aimed at equitable hiring practices. Our guide outlines the roles of search committee members, emphasizing the importance of compliance with Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action policies, while fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the hiring process.

    Search Concerns

Meet Our Team

We are dedicated to ensuring fair treatment and equal access for all faculty, staff, and students. Your questions and concerns are important to us, so don't hesitate to reach out.
Kimberly DeVries

Kimberly DeVries

  • Assistant Vice Chancellor for Access and Compliance and Executive Director of Equal Opportunity and Regulatory Compliance
Billy Benson

Billy Benson

  • Director, Equal Opportunity Compliance & ADA Coordinator
Marissa Watson

Marissa Watson

  • Title IX Investigator/Trainer
Jordan Cohen

Jordan Cohen

  • Compliance Specialist
Natalia Norwood

Natalia Norwood

  • ADA Specialist/EORC Investigator
Grey Young

Grey Young

  • Compliance Specialist
Jody Myatt

Jody Myatt

  • Compliance Specialist
Alex Bullock

Alex Bullock

  • Operations Coordinator II