Partnerships

Discover the diversity, equity, and inclusion resources available at Penn State:

College-specific Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion offices at University Park:

The videos below provide an overview of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion offices in each college at University Park. As you prepare to transition into your college of choice, we encourage you to reach out to the college-specific contact listed to introduce yourself and learn more about what their college has to offer.

Go directly to a college using the links or browse all videos below.

College of Agricultural Sciences
College of Arts & Architecture
Smeal College of Business
Bellisario College of Communications
College of Earth & Mineral Sciences
College of Education
College of Engineering
College of Health and Human Development
College of Information Sciences & Technology
College of the Liberal Arts
Eberly College of Science

 

Identity-specific Support

Multicultural Resource Center (MRC)
The Paul Robeson Cultural Center (PRCC)
Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity
Penn State Hillel
Pasquerilla Spiritual Center
Office of Veteran Programs
International Student and Scholar Advising (ISSA)
Student Disability Resources
Sokolov-Miller Family Financial and Life Skills Center
First Gen Advocates
The Student Success Center

 

Compliance & Support

Gender Equity Center
Office of Sexual Misconduct Prevention & Response
 

 

Writing a professional email

Here is a quick guide on how to write a professional email and make a positive first impression:

  • Write a short descriptive subject that is appropriate to the content of your email. Your subject will help the reader properly prioritize your email and it provides a preview of what you would like to discuss. "For example, "Getting Involved in ART Club" or "Setting up an Appointment" are concise but informative; however, "HELP!" and "I want to meet to learn how to get involved in the College of Liberal Arts" are not appropriate email subject lines.
  • Address the email formerly (e.g. Mr/Ms./Director/Dr./Professor). If you’re unsure of how to address someone (professor, doctor, director), simply address that person as Mr./Ms. Last Name or “Dear First and Last Name” so as not to assume their gender identity.
  • Use complete sentences, proper grammar, and punctuation so that your email represents you professionally. In most cases, your email should not read like a text message. In an introduction email, eliminate emojis, slang, and acronyms (e.g. IMHO; TY; LMK; ICYMI).
  • End your email thanking the reader for their time. Avoid closing statements like, “Please respond ASAP,” “I need to know immediately,” and “get back to me ASAP. Statements like these communicate that you do not respect the reader’s time, connotes impatience, and will generally have the opposite of the intended effect.
  • Sign your full name (and preferred name if you go by another name in class) and list your student ID number. Always use your Penn State email address when communicating with university officials (e.g. faculty members/instructors, staff, advisers).

College

University Park Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Offices

College of Agricultural Sciences

The College of Agricultural Sciences helps students to discover, integrate, translate, and disseminate knowledge to enhance the food and agricultural system, natural and environmental resources, and economic and social well-being. Graduates earn degrees related to animal and plant sciences; ecosystems and the environment; food and fuel; human and veterinary health and medicine; business, government, and nonprofits; teaching and extension; engineering; and more.

College of Agricultural Sciences, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Contact Information:

Derek A. James
Coordinator of Multicultural Programs
College of Agricultural Sciences
Email: daj17@psu.edu
Schedule an Appointment: www.calendly.com/psuagdiversity

College of Arts & Architecture

The College of Arts and Architecture provides high quality training for artists, designers, scholars, teachers, and arts professionals while advancing research and creative activity. Majors in this college span the performing, visual, and design arts, preparing students for careers where their creativity and curiosity shine through.

College of Arts & Architecture, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Contact Information:

Curt Marshall
Coordinator of Multicultural Programs
College of Arts & Architecture
Email: cem2@psu.edu

Smeal College of Business

The Smeal College of Business teaches students to gather, analyze and process information to make wise business decisions in an increasingly complex world. Graduates are taught to grapple with tough ethical decisions and navigate the ever changing and diversifying world of business.

Smeal College of Business, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Contact Information:

Jamie Campbell
Assistant Dean, Diversity Enhancement Programs
Smeal College of Business

To contact the office, please email
Pauline Hough
Email: pqh101@psu.edu

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Bellisario College of Communications

The Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications teaches students to develop creative, appropriate, and professional content, while analyzing the effects of media and technology on society. The College of Communications also prepares students to engage in strategic communication across a diverse professional landscape.

Bellisario College of Communications, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Contact Information:

Gary Abdullah
Assistant Dean, Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Bellisario College of Communications
Email: gaa120@psu.edu

College of Earth & Mineral Sciences

The College of Earth and Mineral Sciences creates leaders in earth, energy, and materials sciences and engineering industries while providing new knowledge to help drive the economic endurance of the state and the country. Their mission includes expanding new discoveries as it relates to how the Earth’s systems interact with one another and with people.

College of Earth & Mineral Sciences, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Contact Information:

James Guyton
Coordinator of Multicultural Programs
College of Earth & Mineral Sciences

To contact the office, please email:
Lori Robinson,
Administrative Support Coordinator
Email: llr5@psu.edu

College of Education

Graduates transition to careers in K-12 education (focusing on teaching and learning in many content areas), rehabilitation, counseling, workforce education and development, and human services. Graduates also may expand into opportunities that include Higher Education and Education Public Policy.

College of Education, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Contact Information:

Brenda Martinez
Student Advocacy Specialist, Office of Education and Social Equity
College of Education
Email: bxm93@psu.edu

College of Engineering

The College of Engineering prepares creative thinkers to solve society’s most complex problems. With the support of world’s largest engineering alumni network, students get to work developing innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges through transformational interdisciplinary research from the start of their academic career..

College of Engineering, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Contact Information:

Dr. Lauren Griggs
Director, Multicultural Engineering Program
Center for Engineering Outreach and Inclusion
College of Engineering
Email: lag5817@psu.edu

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College of Health and Human Development

The College of Health and Human Development prepares professionals to improve human health, development, and the quality of life for people at all stages of life. Graduates pursue careers in education, healthcare, and business.

College of Health and Human Development, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Contact Information:

Joyce Hopson-King
Assistant Dean and Instructor
Office of Diversity and Inclusion
College of Health and Human Development

To contact the office, please email:
Ms. Kelly Kleinman
Academic Support Coordinator
Email: hhd-diversity@psu.edu

College of Information Sciences and Technology

The College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST) teaches students how to solve real-world problems by thinking critically, working in teams, leveraging information, and using technology to tackle the greatest challenges of the 21st century. Students choosing a major in IST blend technological expertise with skills in business, computer science, psychology, engineering, sociology, mathematics, law, and other fields.

College of Information Sciences and Technology, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Contact Information:

Madhavi Kari
Assistant Director, Office of Inclusion and Diversity Engagement
College of Information Sciences and Technology
Email: mxk157@psu.edu

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College of the Liberal Arts

The College of the Liberal Arts teach students to think critically, analyze information thoroughly, communicate effectively, act ethically, and become engaged citizens in a diverse global society. Graduates from this college walk away with a diverse skillset and go into careers in law, business, technology, education, government and more.

College of the Liberal Arts, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Contact Information:

Earl F. Merritt
Director, Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
College of Health and Human Development
Email: efm1@psu.edu

Eberly College of Science

The Eberly College of Science improves society and addresses global challenges through biological, mathematical, physical and interdisciplinary sciences lens. The College also focuses on excellence in science education and research.

Eberly College of Science, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Contact Information:

Samia Cooperider
Assistant Director, Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Eberly College of Science
Email: sxc1060@psu.edu

Industry-specific Support

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Multicultural Resource Center

Location: 220 Grange Building
Web: equity.psu.edu/mrc
Phone: 814-865-1773
Email: mrc@psu.edu
Instagram: @mrcpennstate

The Multicultural Resource Center (MRC) supports undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds at University Park. The MRC helps students tackle the demands and challenges associated with transitioning to Penn State and earning a degree at a major Research 1 institution. MRC counselors work with students on a variety of issues including developing stronger academic skills (e.g. study skills, time management techniques, and test taking strategies), navigating the university, understanding University policies and procedures, and more. Additionally, the MRC is the home of several identity-based student groups including Blends of Traditional Heritages (BOTH), Black and Latino Male Empowerment Group (BLMEG), Latinx Leadership Institute (LLI), and Women of Color Empowerment Group (WOCE).

To access your MRC counselor, log onto Starfish, click on your success network and your MRC Counselor should be listed there. Can’t find your MRC counselor? Call 814-865-1773 or email mrc@psu.edu to ask for information or to make an appointment.

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Paul Robeson Cultural Center (PRCC)

Location: Ground Floor 013 HUB-Robeson Center
Web: studentaffairs.psu.edu/cultural
Phone: 814-865-3776
Email: prcc@psu.edu
Instagram: @PSUPRCC
Facebook: @PSU.PRCC

The Paul Robeson Cultural Center (PRCC) seeks to make true the mission of the institution by serving students in the development of character, conscience, and social responsibility through fostering identity development, social justice, and inclusion. The Paul Robeson Cultural Center is committed to creating institutional programs that are driven by the Vision and Statement of Purpose in the following areas: identity development; social justice initiatives; cultural enrichment; and Scholarly initiatives & Cultural Educations Programs. PRCC’s programs and support services encourage and cultivate the appreciation and celebration of the diverse perspectives, experiences, and cultures of many under-represented communities at Penn State.

To get the latest information on what is happening in the PRCC, join the listserv and receive weekly newsletter. Checkout the ways to get involved.

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Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity

Location: Ground Floor 011 HUB-Robeson Center
Web: https://studentaffairs.psu.edu/csgd
Phone: 814-863-1248
Email: lgbtq@psu.edu
Instagram: @PennStateLGBTQ
Facebook: @PennStateLGBTQ

The Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity (CSGD) provides a comprehensive range of education, information, and advocacy services to students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Resources include peer-to-peer support, gender-inclusive housing, Transgender and Non-Binary resources and LGBT+ organizations. Join CSGD’s listserv.

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Penn State Hillel

Location: 114–117 Pasquerilla Spiritual Center
Web: https://pennstatehillel.org/
Phone: 814-863-3816
Email: Hillel@psu.edu
Facebook/Instagram/Twitter: @PennStateHillel

Penn State Hillel aims to support the lives of the over 5,000 Jewish students on campus, as well as provide social, cultural, and educational opportunities. Students can find local events and community, as well as apply to learn more about Judaism through the Jewish Learning Fellowship.

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Pasquerilla Spiritual Center

Location: 111 Pasquerilla Spiritual Center
Web: https://studentaffairs.psu.edu/spiritual
Phone: 814-865-6548
Email: spiritual@psu.edu
Instagram: @csed.psu

The Pasquerilla Spiritual Center offers a welcoming, safe, inclusive environment, and aims to promote an environment of appreciation and respect for religious and spiritual diversity. Services offered include a guide to local houses of worship, religious student organizations, events and more. Join the Multi-faith listerv by sending your request to spiritual@psu.edu.

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Office of Veterans Programs

Location: 146 Ritenour Building
Web: http://equity.psu.edu/veterans
Phone: 814-863-0465
Email: ovp@psu.edu
Facebook: @Penn-State-Office-of-Veterans-Programs-295136523879259

The Office of Veterans Programs (OVP) provides certification of veterans education benefits as well as comprehensive counseling, programming, advocacy, and support to all military affiliated students.

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International Student and Scholar Advising (ISSA)

Location: 410 Boucke Building
Web: https://global.psu.edu/international
Ask a Question: https://istart.gp.psu.edu

International Student and Scholar Advising (ISSA) offers advising, immigration services, and training to support our international students, scholars, and faculty.

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Student Disability Resources

Location: 116 Boucke Building
Web: http://equity.psu.edu/student-disability-resources
Phone: 814-863-1807
Email: upsdr@psu.edu

Student Disability Resources (SDR) coordinates support services and reasonable academic accommodations for students with documented disabilities. Accommodations can include extended time on exams, note-taking assistance, alternative textbooks and more. Students may apply for temporary accommodations (e.g. for a concussion, physical limitations due to an injury (e.g. car accident)) or ongoing accommodations for more long-term disabilities. SDR also helps students connect with peers, offers a student center with study spaces, and promotes disability as an aspect of diversity.

Students interested in applying for services should:

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Sokolov-Miller Family Financial and Life Skills Center

Location: 11-A Grange Building
Web: https://financialliteracy.psu.edu/
Phone: 814-863-0214
Email: finlit@psu.edu

The Sokolov-Miller Family Financial and Life Skills Center provides educational resources and counseling on tenants of financial literacy. Education includes professional and/or peer counseling, mentorship, and online modules on budgeting, student loans, debt management, savings, investments, and more!

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First Gen Advocates

Web: https://sites.psu.edu/firstgenadvocates/home
Email: firstgenadvocates@gmail.com
Instagram: @FGA_PennState

First Gen Advocates (FGA) promotes awareness, advocacy, and mentorship of first generation college students. FGA defines a first-generation college student as any student who is first in their family to attend or graduate a four-year college, students whose parent(s) earned only an Associate’s degree, or students who will be the first in their family to attend college in the USA. Support in FGA includes mentorship, workshops to support professional and personal development, social/de-stress events, and enrichment resources (Kaplan, summer research, conferences, etc.), and industry career pipelines.

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Student Success Center

Location: 325 Boucke Building
Web: success.psu.edu
Phone: 814-865-6101
Email: student.success@psu.edu

The Student Success Center works with university-wide campus partners to provide student support and increase student retention and graduation rates. The Student Success Center manages Complete Penn State, a program designed to help students experiencing financial hardship during their final year at Penn State graduate, and coordinates the celebration and recognition of the experiences of first generation college students.

Compliance and Support

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Gender Equity Center

Location: 204 Boucke Building
Web: https://studentaffairs.psu.edu/genderequity
Phone: 814-863-2027
Email: genderequity@psu.edu
Facebook/Instagram: @PennStateGenEq

Penn State’s Gender Equity Center (GenEq) supports students who have been impacted by sexual violence, relationship violence, stalking, harassment, and other campus climate issues. GenEq staff provides education, advocacy, referrals, and crisis intervention/support counseling. All services are free and confidential. Seeking advice from a confidential counselor does not constitute a report to the University or law enforcement or result in the Center sharing a person’s identity to another office or person without that person’s permission.

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Office of Sexual Misconduct Prevention & Response

Location: 222 Boucke Building
Web: https://titleix.psu.edu
Phone: 814-867-0099
Email: Titleix@psu.edu

The Office of Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Response ensures compliance with Title IX, a federal law that prohibits discrimination based on the sex or gender of employees and students. Those impacted by sexual or gender discrimination or violence can file a report, receive help, and review their rights as a complainant or respondent.