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.
Belonging Gatherings
In the spirit of fostering connection, growth, and belonging, the College of Social Science Office of Institutional Access warmly invites you to participate in our Belonging Gatherings. These recurring gatherings are designed to celebrate who we are as individuals and as a community, and how our diverse paths and stories enrich our collective journey.
Please join us for these monthly gatherings created with you in mind. Each session will feature light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments to enjoy as we connect.
All events are located in 309 Berkey Hall
Schedule
- February 19 (12:00–1:00 PM)
- March 18 (2:00–3:00 PM)
- April 14 (4:00–5:00 PM)
Registration encouraged for food guarantees
All events are located in 309 Berkey Hall
Schedule
- February 20 (12:00–1:00 PM)
- March 17 (2:00–3:00 PM)
- April 15 (4:00–5:00 PM)
Registration encouraged for food guarantees
All events are located in 309 Berkey Hall
Schedule
- February 18 (12:00–1:00 PM)
- March 19 (2:00–3:00 PM)
- April 17 (4:00–5:00 PM)
Registration encouraged for food guarantees
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.