Content

Workshop Descriptions

Here is a listing of our workshops and their course numbers in eLearning. For workshop descriptions, dates, and how to register, please click the title.

OIED Workshop eLearning Course Number
Affirmative Action in Employment OEO032
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) OEO015
Discrimination & Harassment Prevention & Response DHPR 01
Discrimination & Harassment Prevention & Response: Supplemental Training for Supervisors DHPR 02
Equal Employment Opportunity & Affirmative Action OEO006
The EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) OEO024
EEOI (Equal Employment Opportunity Institute), Parts 1 & 2 OEO028 & OEO28B
EOI (Equal Opportunity Institute) EOI
EOI: Special Topics for Managers & Supervisors OEO030
Equal Opportunity Jeopardy OEO020
Exploring Oppression OEO027
Fair Housing OEO068
Leading a Diverse Workforce OEO033
Legacies + Layers = Lenses (Campus Diversity Conflicts: Methods for Managing the Unmanageable) OEO016
National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI) OEO012, OEO12A, OEO12B & OEO031
The Protected Class of Age OEO023
The Protected Class of Disability OEO005
The Protected Class of National Origin OEO009
The Protected Classes of Race & Color OEO025
The Protected Classes of Religion & Creed OEO008
The Protected Class of Sex OEO001
The Protected Class of Sexual Orientation/Project SAFE OEO007
The Protected Class of Veteran Status OEO026
Title IX: Gender Equity in Higher Education OEO021
Transgender 101 OEO069

Courses are open to the NC State community at no cost. If you are not a member of the NC State community and would like to register, please contact Beverly Jones Williams at 919-513-3836.

  • All registrants (except EOI participants), please register directly in eLearning or use our online Registration Form for OIED-Sponsored Workshops. Please note that you must be an NC State employee to access eLearning. In eLearning, select MyPack Portal > Employee Self Service > Learning & Development > Request Training Enrollment > Enter Course Number. For information on how to use eLearning, please see eLearning Central.
  • EOI participants, please use the EOI Workshop Registration Form.

Affirmative Action in Employment
(eLearning course number: OEO032)

About the Workshop

This workshop provides an opportunity to expand the knowledge participants have gained about the policy of affirmative action in the Equal Employment Opportunity workshop. A historical overview of the policy is explored, as well as the legal obligations of federal contractors with regards to affirmative action. Often, misinformation, mis-communication, and myths surround the concept of affirmative action, which will be clarified in this workshop. Participants will learn about the various individuals and groups involved in shaping the policy of affirmative action as well as the actual implementation of affirmative action in a selection decision.

About the Instructor

Carson Cook, from NC State's Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity and Equity, possesses more than 25 years of experience managing equal opportunity, affirmative action, and diversity programs in government, academic, and corporate settings. Prior to his appointment at NC State, Mr. Cook held positions as director of diversity and compliance programs at Mississippi State University, associate director of diversity and compliance programs at California State Polytechnic University in Pomona, director of equal opportunity programs at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, and assistant director for affirmative action at Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis. Mr. Cook holds a bachelor's degree from Roosevelt University in Chicago and has completed graduate work at the University of Chicago.

Current Offerings

  • Wed, 03/28/2013, 10:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m., Administrative Services II, Room 212
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
(eLearning course number: OEO015)

About the Workshop

The responsibility for implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act’s (ADA) employment provision, Title I, falls largely on unit managers and/or departmental supervisors since they are responsible for recruitment, pre-employment screening, and other workplace practices that affect the hiring and retention of workers with and without disabilities. The purpose of this course is to focus on correct and lawful employment practices that will minimize workplace discrimination for persons with disabilities.

About the Instructor

Amy Circosta, J.D., is the Assistant Vice Provost for Equal Opportunity in the Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity at NC State University. Her position involves investigating and resolving complaints of unlawful discrimination and harassment at the University through both informal and formal procedures, as well as educating the campus community about unlawful harassment. Before coming to NC State, she served as ombudsman for San Diego State University. As ombudsman, she provided a confidential and independent resource for conflict resolution on campus. Ms. Circosta earned her J.D. from the University of Arizona and is licensed to practice law in California.

Mark Newmiller is also an instructor for this course.

Current Offerings

  • Fri, 10/12/2012, 1:30p.m.-3:30p.m., Administrative Services Building III, Room 124
  • Tue, 03/12/2013, 1:00p.m.-3:00p.m., Administrative Services Building II, Room 101
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

Discrimination & Harassment Prevention & Response
(eLearning course number: DHPR01 & DHPR02)

About the Workshop

In this course, you will learn how the terms “discrimination” and “harassment” are specifically defined in our University policies as well as how to identify discriminatory or harassing behavior. The course will emphasize the rights and responsibilities you have as an employee and a supervisor if 1) You experience discrimination or harassment, 2) You are accused of discrimination or harassment, or 3) Someone reports an incident of discrimination or harassment to you. You will find out about the options available for resolving complaints and the procedure the Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity uses to ensure complaints are adequately addressed. In addition, the course will discuss measures that each individual can take to help ensure that NC State is a discrimination and harassment-free environment. The format of this course is designed to promote discussion and questions are encouraged. Case studies will be used to demonstrate concepts, but participants are welcome to develop examples they wish to see addressed.

About the Instructor

A native New Yorker, Ursula Hairston moved to North Carolina to attend Wake Forest University where she received her B.A. in Psychology. She worked for a non-profit organization that served adults with developmental disabilities, then returned to Wake Forest to work in alumni affairs. In 2000, she received her Masters in Public Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and embarked on a 10 year career in Human Resources. Hairston worked in training, recruitment services, and organization development for the NC Department of Health and Human Services. She worked as the Human Resources Director for the NC Office of State Budget & Management and the Office of the Governor for over six years. Hairston has always enjoyed training and has had a passion for student and career development work. She joined NC State's newly realigned Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity in December 2010, where she conducts complaint investigations and has the opportunity to engage and conduct prevention and awareness workshops for faculty, students, and staff.

Current Offerings

  • Fri, 10/12/2012, 10:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m., Administrative Services Building III, Room 124
  • Tue, 02/05/2013, 10:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m., Administrative Services Building II, Room 101
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

Equal Employment Opportunity & Affirmative Action
(eLearning course number: OEO006)

About the Workshop

Illegal discrimination costs organizations hundreds of thousands of dollars every year in lost productivity, administrative costs, and legal fees. Your actions could be putting yourself and your company in legal jeopardy and potentially lead to costly and embarrassing discrimination charges. This training course is designed to provide managers and supervisors with an overview and practical understanding of the fundamental principles and requirements of Equal Employment Opportunity laws. The primary focus is on federal EEO laws, but participants are also exposed to some of the principles and requirements of state EEO laws and NC State policy and procedures governing non-discrimination throughout the life cycle of the employment process – from recruitment and selection, to performance management, to terminations. This program addresses both disparate treatment discrimination and disparate impact discrimination under all of the federally protected categories. Course content will allow participants to practice and enhance their management style in dealing with EEO related issues.

About the Instructor

Carson Cook, from NC State's Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity and Equity, possesses more than 25 years of experience managing equal opportunity, affirmative action, and diversity programs in government, academic, and corporate settings. Prior to his appointment at NC State, Mr. Cook held positions as director of diversity and compliance programs at Mississippi State University, associate director of diversity and compliance programs at California State Polytechnic University in Pomona, director of equal opportunity programs at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, and assistant director for affirmative action at Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis. Mr. Cook holds a bachelor's degree from Roosevelt University in Chicago and has completed graduate work at the University of Chicago.

Current Offerings

  • Fri, 10/12/2012, 8:15 a.m. - 10:15 p.m., Administrative Services Building III, Room 124
  • Thu, 02/21/2013, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Administrative Services Building II, Room 101
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

The EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission)
(eLearning course number: OEO024)

About the Workshop

Learn more about the laws that the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces and how the organization operates and handles charges. You will also hear case studies and gain insights into how to avoid employment discrimination. An EEOC representative presents this workshop.

About the Instructor

Tom Colclough began his career with the EEOC in 1988. In 1989, he became an investigator. In 1998, he was promoted to the position of enforcement supervisor. In February 2005, he became the local director of the Greensboro local office. In October 2006, he was promoted to the position of area director in the Raleigh area office. As director the Raleigh area office, Mr. Colclough provides guidance and direction to support the EEOC’s national and local enforcement plans. His office model ensures that employees focus on the Commission’s top priorities, and he works to motivate all employees to work together on common goals. Colclough also works closely with the district director and other management staff within the Charlotte district. Colclough graduated from Saint Augustine’s College with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration. He also served in the military (active and reserve) for 23 years and retired from the North Carolina National Guard in 2005 at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

Current Offerings

  • Wed, 10/17/2012, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m., Administrative Services Building II, Room 101
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

EEOI (Equal Employment Opportunity Institute), Parts 1 & 2
(eLearning course number: OEO028 & OEO28B)

About the Workshop

The Equal Employment Opportunity Institute (EEOI) is a one and a half (1½) day training program intended to help managers and supervisors understand federal and state employment discrimination laws and how they impact day-to-day managerial decisions.

All managers and supervisors employed by the University are required to attend this training course, in accordance with North Carolina state law (General Statute 126.16.1).

Participation in the EEOI is intended to increase one's understanding of the role and responsibilities managers and supervisors have in managing employees from different backgrounds and cultures, and the corresponding laws, policies, and employment practices that govern equal employment opportunity in the workplace.

This course utilizes case studies and other activities to enable managers and supervisors to create fair, equitable, and inclusive work environments. Topics include:

  • in-depth reviews of EEO and AA federal and state laws, regulations and court cases;
  • explanation of EEO/AA employer obligations;
  • discussion of the impact of EEO laws on policies, procedures and day-to-day operations;
  • developing awareness on issues of valuing and managing diversity and building cultural competencies;
  • discussion of diversity and its relationship to EEO/AA; and
  • building an inclusive work environment that supports diversity and fosters productivity.

For more information about the Equal Employment Opportunity Institute, contact Beverly Williams by phone at 919-513-3836 or via email at beverly_williams@ncsu.edu.

About the Instructor

The EEOI instructors are from NC State's Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity.

Current Offerings

  • Please check eLearning for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

  • To attend EEOI, you must register via NC State's eLearning System. The NC State community can access the eLearning system through MyPack Portal on the NC State website.
  • NOTE: You must register for and complete both parts, OEO028 and OEO28B, to receive credit.
  • If you are waitlisted, please check back for future sessions. Thank you!
  • This workshop may also be taken at the Office of State Personnel Development Center.

EOI (Equal Opportunity Institute)
(eLearning course number: EOI)

About the Program

The Equal Opportunity Institute is a program offered through the Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity that allows anyone from either the campus community or the general public to take many of the courses listed on this page, as well as other exciting offerings from Human Resources and the Center for Student Leadership & Public Service, attend a mid-year lunch, and receive a certificate and continuing education credits at the EOI graduation ceremony at the end of the academic year. See also the EOI website for additional information.

About the Instructors

The EOI instructors are from NC State's Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity, Human Resources, and the Center for Student Leadership & Public Service.

Current Offerings

  • Please check the EOI website for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

To apply for the Equal Opportunity Institute, you must complete the EOI Application form. If you have questions, please contact Beverly Jones Williams at 919-513-3836.

EOI: Special Topics for Managers & Supervisors
(eLearning course number: OEO030)

About the Program

This session was generated based on the feedback of past EOI participants. This class is for EOI participants only. It is designed to answer questions managers and supervisors may have regarding the information learned through EOI and to assist in the application of new knowledge. The course will be customized based on the needs and concerns of the participants.

About the Instructor

Beverly Jones Williams, Coordinator of Outreach and Education in the Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity, has worked at NC State for many years in various positions. In her first position in University Housing, she lived on campus and worked directly with students. In 1988, she left NC State to take a position as area coordinator at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She later returned to NC State as the assistant director in University Housing. After working in housing, Ms. Williams made a shift into training as a training and development specialist in Human Resources. In 2000, she moved to the Office for Equal Opportunity (now the Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity) where she directs the Equal Opportunity Institute and NCBI.

Current Offerings

  • Wed, 04/03/2013, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Administrative Services Building II, Room 101
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

For dates and times, or to register, please use the EOI Workshop Registration Form).

Equal Opportunity Jeopardy
(eLearning course number: OEO020)

About the Workshop

Equal Opportunity Jeopardy is an educational game for team participants designed to to review equal employment opportunity laws and history, affirmative action, and diversity. This program is both educational and fun. The game has the format of Jeopardy. Although no money is given away, the fun and learning is priceless.

About the Instructor

Beverly Jones Williams, c, has worked at NC State for many years in various positions. In her first position in University Housing, she lived on campus and worked directly with students. In 1988, she left NC State to take a position as area coordinator at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She later returned to NC State as the assistant director in University Housing. After working in housing, Ms. Williams made a shift into training as a training and development specialist in Human Resources. In 2000, she moved to the Office for Equal Opportunity (now the Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity) where she directs the Equal Opportunity Institute, NCBI, and Study Circles on Race and Race Relations.

Current Offerings

  • Thu, 04/11/2013, 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Administrative Services Building II, Room 101
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

Exploring Oppression
(eLearning course number: OEO027)

About the Workshop

The cycle of oppression in American society stems from an abuse of power with resulting negative treatment and outcomes for a variety of peoples. One solution to the cycle of oppression has been equal opportunity and Civil Rights laws designed to prohibit oppressive behavior towards legally protected classes of people. Within this workshop, you will have the opportunity to question your role in the cycle of oppression by asking: Am I oppressed? Do I oppress others? What is my role in breaking the cycle of oppression? You will explore the existence, definition, cycle of oppression, and the experience of oppression for individuals and groups. Finally, strategies to eliminate oppression from the perspective of the oppressed and the oppressor will be examined.

About the Instructor

Beverly Jones Williams, Coordinator of Outreach and Education in the Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity in the Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity, has worked at NC State for many years in various positions. In her first position in University Housing, she lived on campus and worked directly with students. In 1988, she left NC State to take a position as area coordinator at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She later returned to NC State as the assistant director in University Housing. After working in housing, Ms. Williams made a shift into training as a training and development specialist in Human Resources. In 2000, she moved to the Office for Equal Opportunity (now the Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity) where she directs the Equal Opportunity Institute, NCBI, and Study Circles on Race and Race Relations.

Current Offerings

  • Wed, 11/28/2012, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., Administrative Services Building II, Room 101
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

Fair Housing
(eLearning course number: OEO068)

About the Program

The right to choose where one resides is the fundamental right of all American citizens. It wasn't until Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4th 1968 that President Lyndon B. Johnson was able to urge Congress to move forward on the passage of fair housing legislation. Approximately one week later, just before Dr. King's funeral, Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, better known as the Fair Housing Act was signed into law. As part of the City of Raleigh Fair Housing Hearing Board education and outreach efforts, this workshop will be an interactive discussion on the federal Fair Housing Act (FHA), individual rights under FHA, how and who to contact for help and current issues related to housing and lending discrimination.

About the Instructors

Shawn Colvin currently serves as chairman of the City of Raleigh Fair Housing Hearing Board (FHHB). Mr. Colvin has worked in real estate for the past eight years and has served on FHHB since 2010. He also works for Video Communication Services within Distance Education & Learning Technology Applications (DELTA) at NC State which produces and delivers distance education courses from NC State's media-rich classrooms, and provides video production services and broadcast infrastructure for the university.

Carol Comrie currently works for Fair Housing Project of Legal Aid of North Carolina as its testing coordinator. The Fair Housing Project of Legal Aid of North Carolina is the state's only statewide full-serve fair housing organization. As testing coordinator, Ms. Comrie coordinates systemic and complaint- based testing of housing providers throughout North Carolina. In addition, Ms. Comrie received her J.D. from The John Marshall Law School in Chicago, Illinois and is a licensed attorney in Georgia.

Current Offerings

  • Tue, 01/29/2013, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Avent Ferry Complex, Room 106
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

Leading a Diverse Workforce
(eLearning course number: OEO033)

About the Program

One of the most common reasons employees leave an organization is their relationship with their supervisor. Today's workforce is changing dramatically and your leadership skills must keep pace. Learning to address the needs of a diverse workforce and communicate effectively are critical skills for success and require practice. Participants in this class will learn about four cultures that exist in organizations, practice differentiating facts from assumptions, and learn how to prepare for difficult conversations. Culture influences organizations and leaders influence culture. This class is an introduction to the skill set required for today's 21st century leaders.

About the Instructor

A native New Yorker, Ursula Hairston moved to North Carolina to attend Wake Forest University where she received her B.A. in Psychology. She worked for a non-profit organization that served adults with developmental disabilities, then returned to Wake Forest to work in alumni affairs. In 2000, she received her Masters in Public Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and embarked on a 10 year career in Human Resources. Hairston worked in training, recruitment services, and organization development for the NC Department of Health and Human Services. She worked as the Human Resources Director for the NC Office of State Budget & Management and the Office of the Governor for over six years. Hairston has always enjoyed training and has had a passion for student and career development work. She joined NC State's newly realigned Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity in December 2010, where she conducts complaint investigations and has the opportunity to engage and conduct prevention and awareness workshops for faculty, students, and staff.

Current Offerings

  • Wed, 11/14/2012, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Administrative Services Building III, Room 124
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

Legacies + Layers = Lenses (Campus Diversity Conflicts: Methods for Managing the Unmanageable)
(eLearning course number: OEO016)

About the Program

CONFLICT is a word that strikes fear in the hearts of most people. Unresolved conflicts, with the added dimension of diversity, including racial/ethnic differences, sexual orientation, gender, and religion to name a few, prevent positive, sustained personal and professional growth. Participants look at the world through their own set of spectacles, or perceptual filters, comprising what they have been taught and what they have seen, heard, and experienced. These perceptual filters are lenses through which everyone looks at differences such as race, ethnicity, gender, and nationality. This interactive session offers ideas and skills to assist university faculty, staff, and students in addressing the management of negative conflict in proactive, constructive ways. Various methods, including appropriate diversity training, coaching, group facilitation, and mediation are showcased and discussed.

About the Instructor

Versatile… intense… exciting… innovative… and dynamic are the terms used to describe Tia Marie Doxey. Ms. Doxey is a graduate of West Virginia University with a Bachelors of Music. She also received a Masters of Education with an emphasis in Higher Education from NC State. Tia Marie Doxey with more than twelve years of high education administration experience has worked at Old Dominion University, University of Tennessee at Knoxville, and NC State University. Ms. Doxey, also an actor and singer, has performed in several operas and portrayed Mama Lena in “Raisin in the Sun” at NC State. Committed to educating others about cross-culture communication, diversity, white privilege, and coalition building, Ms. Doxey shares her inspirational and entertaining messages with associations, conferences, corporations, schools, and churches. She is currently Director of Student Life Assessment at NC Central University and the campus affiliate director for the NC Central affiliate of the National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI).

Current Offerings

  • Tue, 03/19/2013, 1:00p.m.-3:00p.m., Administrative Services Building II, Room 101
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI): Building Bridges: Strengthening Leadership for Diverse Communities
(eLearning course number: OEO012 - This is the full-day workshop that is Part I & Part II.)

About the Program

Please see the NCBI website.

Current Offerings

  • Fri, 08/24/2012, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Winslow Hall, First Floor Conference Room
  • Fri, 04/05/2013, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Student Health Center, Room 2301
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI): Building Bridges: Strengthening Leadership for Diverse Communities
(eLearning course number: OEO12A - This is the half-day workshop that is Part I only.)

About the Program

Please see the NCBI website.

Current Offerings

  • Tue, 10/30/2012, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Winslow Hall, First Floor Conference Room
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI): Building Bridges: Strengthening Leadership for Diverse Communities
(eLearning course number: OEO12B - This is the half-day workshop that is Part II only. Please take Part I first.)

About the Program

Please see the NCBI website.

Current Offerings

  • Thu, 11/01/2012, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Winslow Hall, First Floor Conference Room
  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

National Coalition Building Institute (NCBI): Leading Diverse Groups Through Conflict
(eLearning course number: OEO031 - It is recommended but not required to take OEO012 or OEO012 & OEO12B prior to taking OEO031.)

About the Program

Please see the NCBI website.

Current Offerings

  • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

Workshop Schedule & Registration

  • For dates and times, or to register, please see the NCBI website (EOI participants must use the EOI Workshop Registration Form).

    • The Protected Class Series
    (eLearning course number: see individual courses below)

    About the Workshops

    "Discrimination" has traditionally been defined as adverse treatment based on an individual's race, color, sex, national origin, or religion. These characteristics are sometimes called "protected classes" or "covered categories." Over the years, other federal and state laws have designated additional protected classes, such as age, disability, and genetic information. While sexual orientation is not considered a protected class by federal or state law, it is the policy of NC State that sexual orientation should not be a factor upon which decisions are based; there are exceptions with respect to the University's relationships with outside organizations (such as the military).

    The purpose of the Protected Class Series is to provide more information to the campus community regarding the ten protected classes that are covered in the University's policies. Eight of protected classes are each covered in a separate workshop. In two instances, two of the protected classes are combined into one workshop because the subject material is so closely linked. Genetic information is covered in several of the workshops. A knowledgeable presenter facilitates each workshop.

    For more information about the protected classes, see NC State's Protected Classes.

    The Protected Class of Age
    (eLearning course number: OEO023)

    This workshop provides answers to the following questions:

    • Who are the aged?
    • What are the basic facts and common misconceptions about the aged?
    • What is ageism?
    • What are the different types of ageism?
    • What are the causes of ageism?
    • What are the major consequences of ageism?
    • How can you avoid ageism?
    • How can ageism be reduced in the workplace?

    About the Instructors

    Amy Circosta, J.D., is the instructor for The Protected Class of Sex and The Protected Class of Age. Ms. Circosta is the Assistant Vice Provost for Equal Opportunity in the Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity at NC State University. Her position involves investigating and resolving complaints of unlawful discrimination and harassment at the University through both informal and formal procedures, as well as educating the campus community about unlawful harassment. Before coming to NC State, she served as ombudsman for San Diego State University. As ombudsman, she provided a confidential and independent resource for conflict resolution on campus. Ms. Circosta earned her J.D. from the University of Arizona and is licensed to practice law in California.

    Lucille B. (Luci) Bearon, PhD, Associate Professor and Adult Development/Aging Specialist, is one of the presenters of the Protected Class of Age workshop. Dr. Bearon, a sociologist with 40 years in the field of gerontology, received her doctorate from Duke University in conjunction with the Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development. She joined the faculty at NC State in 1995 to provide support to the counties on issues related to older adults and their families. Her focus areas are successful and healthy aging, family caregiving for older adults, and grandparents raising grandchildren. She teaches a graduate course on Applications of Gerontology in Family Life Education for the Masters degree program in Family Life and Youth Development. She represents NC Cooperative Extension on the Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging, has been an expert panelist for the Rosalynn Carter Institute of Caregiving, and has been named a Fellow of the Association for Gerontology in Higher Education. Her favorite Extension publication is Little Old Ladies and Grumpy Old Men: How Language Shapes Our Views About Aging (2002).

    Current Offerings

    • Thu, 03/28/2013, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., Administrative Services Building II, Room 101
    • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

    Workshop Schedule & Registration

    The Protected Class of Disability
    (eLearning course number: OEO005)

    Through this workshop, participants learn the definition of the term "disability" with respect to an individual, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. In addition, participants learn what the laws require, engage in dialogue and gain insight into the experiences of persons with disabilities.

    About the Instructors

    Mr. James Benton, Sr., instructor for The Protected Class of Disability, was born in Asheville, NC, on April 14, 1958 to James Luther Benton and Mary Alice Benton. He resided there until the age of seven, when he began attending school at The Governor Morehead School (GMS) for the Blind on the Garner Road campus. He lost most of his sight at an early age and began attending GMS when it was apparent that he could no longer attend public school. At Governor Morehead, he learned Braille, social skills, and regular academic studies. Upon his graduation from Governor Morehead in June of 1978, He attended Saint Augustine’s College in Raleigh, where he majored in Social Welfare and Urban Studies. His career spans the community widely. Here are just a few of his accomplishments:

    • manager of the division of services for the Blind Business Enterprise snack bar;
    • customer service representative, guest services representative, and staff trainer for Holiday Inn Hotels;
    • community employment specialist, The Governor Morehead School for the Blind, (current position, responsible for assisting students and adults in obtaining employment and training);
    • chairperson, Mayor’s Committee for Persons with Disabilities;
    • president, The Raleigh Blind Bowlers Association; president, The Carolina Bowling Alliance; second vice president, American Blind Bowler’s Association;
    • member of TTA Advisory Board, Raleigh Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.

    Current Offerings

    • Thu, 02/07/2013, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., Administrative Services Building II, Room 101
    • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

    Workshop Schedule & Registration

    The Protected Class of National Origin
    (eLearning course number: OEO009)

    Participants in this session gain an understanding of culture, cultural awareness, and the relationship between assumptions, values, attitudes, and behaviors as they evaluate their own cultural values and learn tools for promoting positive interaction with foreign visitors. Through this session, participants learn the definition of "national origin" and how it relates to ethnicity and culture. Participants also identify cross-cultural mis-communication and gain insights into foreign nationals' experience in the United States.

    About the Instructors

    Jill G. Blitstein is an instructor for The Protected Class of National Origin. Jill Blitstein is the International Employment Manager at North Carolina State University and has over 15 years of immigration experience. Her current position involves assisting departments, faculty and staff with immigration and visa issues, and overseeing the employment eligibility verification process and compliance procedures at NC State University. Jill received her law degree from DePaul University College of Law in 1995 and is licensed to practice law in Illinois. Prior to joining NC State, she was an Associate/Senior Associate at the Chicago Office of Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, a global immigration law firm, from 1997 to 2007. She has provided training to HR and legal professionals on various immigration topics, including nonimmigrant classifications, permanent residence, visa and travel issues, and employment eligibility verification and compliance. Jill has been a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) since 1998.

    Elizabeth Behringer, also an instructor for The Protected Class of National Origin, has been working in the Office of International Services since 2000 in various roles, including Programs Coordinator and currently as an International Student and Scholar Advisor. She has a masters degree in International Studies awarded by NC State University with a focus in international programs administration. She has lived abroad 2 years in France as both a student and English instructor and has enjoyed traveling abroad to destinations such as Morocco, Costa Rica, Turkey, and throughout western Europe.

    Current Offerings

    • Wed, 02/13/2013, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Administrative Services Building II, Room 101
    • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

    Workshop Schedule & Registration

    The Protected Classes of Race & Color
    (eLearning course number: OEO025)

    Workshop participants learn the definition and use of the term "race" within the United States and how color relates to definitions of race and the perception of others. Participants examine cultural and racial misinformation, racial prejudice, and stereotyping as they gain an understanding of the laws protecting the classes of race and color.

    About the Instructors

    Dr. Richard Della Fave and Vice Provost Joanne Woodard are instructors for The Protected Classes of Race & Color. Vice Provost Woodard began at NC State as a faculty member in the department of History, where she taught undergraduate courses in U.S. History and African American History. She became an assistant affirmative action officer in 1992 working with Dr. Lawrence M. Clark. Ms. Woodard was promoted to Vice Provost for Equal Opportunity and Equity in 1999 and currently serves as NC State's Vice Provost for Institutional Equity & Diversity.

    Current Offerings

    • Tue, 10/23/2012, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., Administrative Services II, Room 212
    • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

    Workshop Schedule & Registration

    The Protected Classes of Religion & Creed
    (eLearning course number: OEO008)

    Participants learn about discrimination on the bases of religion and creed and explore several religions, gain insights into how individuals and groups experience religious discrimination, and obtain strategies to help eliminate religious discrimination. A panel of representatives from different religions makes this workshop an invaluable opportunity to gain information.

    About the Instructors

    Vice Provost Joanne Woodard is the instructor for The Protected Classes of Religion & Creed. Vice Provost Woodard began at NC State as a faculty member in the department of History, where she taught undergraduate courses in U.S. History and African American History. She became an assistant affirmative action officer in 1992 working with Dr. Lawrence M. Clark. Ms. Woodard was promoted to Vice Provost for Equal Opportunity and Equity in 1999 and currently serves as NC State's Vice Provost for Institutional Equity & Diversity.

    Current Offerings

    • Wed, 02/13/2013, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., Avent Ferry Complex, Room 106
    • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

    Workshop Schedule & Registration

    The Protected Class of Sex
    (eLearning course number: OEO001)

    This workshop provides an overview of why "sex" [or gender] is a protected class and features an examination of the laws that address discrimination based on gender. Also, recent court cases regarding sex discrimination and sexual harassment are shared.

    About the Instructors

    Amy Circosta, J.D., is the instructor for The Protected Class of Sex and The Protected Class of Age. Ms. Circosta is the Assistant Vice Provost for Equal Opportunity in the Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity at NC State University. Her position involves investigating and resolving complaints of unlawful discrimination and harassment at the University through both informal and formal procedures, as well as educating the campus community about unlawful harassment. Before coming to NC State, she served as ombudsman for San Diego State University. As ombudsman, she provided a confidential and independent resource for conflict resolution on campus. Ms. Circosta earned her J.D. from the University of Arizona and is licensed to practice law in California.

    Ashley Simons-Rudolph, Ph.D., is the director of the NC State Women's Center in the Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity at NC State University. She is an NC State alumna and earned her Ph.D. in Gender and Social Policy from The George Washington University in Washington DC. Dr. S-R has been teaching online in the NC State Women's and Gender Studies department since 2003 and most recently taught at the American University in Cairo. She has over 20 years of experience in direct services and advocacy. As Director of the Women’s Center, Dr. Simons-Rudolph oversees gender-related programming and services for students, faculty, and staff at NC State.


    Current Offerings

    • Tue, 10/23/2012, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Administrative Services Building II, Room 101
    • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

    Workshop Schedule & Registration

    The Protected Class of Sexual Orientation/Project Safe
    (eLearning course number: OEO007)

    Project SAFE training covers a variety of issues, facts, myths, and ally skills. Following training, you will receive a placard to place in your office or window that identifies you as a Project SAFE member. The expectations of Project SAFE training are to promote active participation for a conducive learning environment; to share knowledge, thoughts, ideas and openness toward diversity and individual differences.

    Current Offerings

    • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

    Workshop Schedule & Registration

    The Protected Class of Veteran Status
    (eLearning course number: OEO026)

    In this workshop, participants learn about veterans and the discrimination they experience. Participants also learn about the laws regarding veteran status.

    Current Offerings

    • Wed, 11/07/2012, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Avent Ferry Complex, Room 106
    • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

    Workshop Schedule & Registration

    Title IX: Gender Equity in Higher Education
    (eLearning course number: OEO021)

    About the Program

    Often when individuals hear "Title IX," gender equity in athletics is the first thing that comes to mind. Title IX of the Education Amendments certainly does involve ensuring gender equity in athletics, but it also works to ensure gender equity in academics and employment. Join this course to learn more about the history of Title IX, progress Title IX has made, and Title IX's presence in educational institutions today.

    About the Instructor

    Amy Circosta, J.D. is the director of harassment prevention & equity programs in the Office for Institutional Equity & Diversity at NC State University. Her position involves investigating and resolving complaints of unlawful discrimination and harassment at the University through both informal and formal procedures, as well as educating the campus community about unlawful harassment. Before coming to NC State, she served as ombudsman for San Diego State University. As ombudsman, she provided a confidential and independent resource for conflict resolution on campus. Ms. Circosta earned her J.D. from the University of Arizona and is licensed to practice law in California.

    Current Offerings

    • Tue, 02/19/2013, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Avent Ferry Complex, Room 106
    • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

    Workshop Schedule & Registration

    Transgender 101
    (eLearning course number: OEO069)

    About the Program

    Project SAFE (listed above) is an ally training program and Transgender 101 is an awareness module. They are both conducted multiple times throughout the year by experienced and trained facilitators. Project SAFE training is 3 hours long and Trans 101 is 2 hours long; both are designed to cover a broad array of information. Each participant receives a complete set of materials to keep. The expectations of training sessions are:

    • to promote a learning environment. to have active participants.
    • to share knowledge, thoughts, and ideas.
    • to have an openness to diversity and individual differences.

    Current Offerings

    • Please check back for future offerings of this workshop.

    Workshop Schedule & Registration