Office of Institutional Access (OIA)
At the College of Social Science (SSC), we believe that the quality of our academic programs, learning, and work environments, depends upon our capacity to uphold the principles of instutional access. We strive to cultivate an inclusive and welcoming college environment that celebrates a diversity of people, ideas, and perspectives.
ACCESS: the transformative power of education
Access means more than just the ability to attend classes, teach, or work—it means empowering every member of our community to dream bigger, reach higher, and make a difference. It’s about giving every student, faculty member, and staff the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background. Because when you have access to education, resources, and support, you have access to a world of possibilities.
OIA supports access, supports futures.
Access is:
Opportunity:
It is the gateway to new knowledge, skills, and networks that can shape a successful future.
Social Mobility:
It is about breaking barriers, lifting communities, and creating pathways to better lives for generations to come.
Innovation and Impact:
It is about fostering a diverse environment where ideas flourish, and solutions to the world’s biggest challenges are born.
A - Aspiration
C - Collaboration
C - Courage
E - Excellence
S - Support
S - Success
Meet the College of Social Science Office of Institutional Access Team
The Michigan State University College of Social Science Office of Institutional Access (OIA) welcomes two new staff members to its team, Veda Hawkins and Victoria Pierce. Dr. Nwando Achebe returns to her role of Associate Dean for Access, Faculty Development, and Strategic Implementation as well as Director of the Office of Institutional Access.
Institutional Access Strategic Planning and Implementation
The College of Social Science has completed a strategic planning process to advance our goals of Institutional Access, in alignment with Michigan State University’s mission to make Institutional Access central to our excellence. Many students, faculty and staff participated in this collaborative process. The plan will be implemented over 5 years starting late Fall 2023 semester.
Submit your ideas
We are in Stage Two of the Strategic Plan Implementation. This community-driven process is an opportunity for you to share your thoughts on what you would like to see included in our implementation process by using our online submission form to submit your ideas, plans, suggestions, or projects to the implementation team.
Now accepting applications:
Dean's Distinguished Senior Scholar Program
The Office of Institutional Access is now accepting applications for the Dean's Distinguished Senior Scholar Program.
The Dean's Distinguished Senior Scholar Program aims to promote an inclusive scholarly environment for exceptional senior faculty who will bring distinction to Michigan State University, substantially enhance the College of Social Science’s standing, and support the advancement of institutional access in the academy.