WCU Equal Employment Opportunity & Affirmative Action Office 01

Equal Opportunity Office

Advancing equity at Western.

We’re committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and representative workforce that reflects the richness of our campus community. The Equal Opportunity Office values each individual’s unique strengths and works to create an environment where all professionals—regardless of race, gender, background, or identity—feel supported, empowered, and respected.

Through education, outreach, policy guidance, and conflict resolution, the office helps ensure fair hiring practices, creates a respectful workplace culture, and upholds compliance with equal employment laws. Our goal is to make Western a leader in equity-driven employment and a place where everyone can thrive.

Our Services

Discrimination Complaint Management

Consultation and Conflict Resolution

Education Opportunities

Law and Policy

Equal Employment Opportunity
Western's Policies

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is responsible for enforcing federal laws that make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or an employee because of the person’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and related conditions, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. They provide guidance on types of discrimination and workplace best practices.

The EEOC enforces these federal laws prohibiting workplace discrimination. In addition to those enforced by the EEOC, these federal laws prohibit discrimination and regulate workplace issues.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Office enforces Western’s Equal Employment Opportunity Policy, found in Section 1.01 of the Handbook for Professional Personnel.

This policy is in accord with the Trustees Equal Opportunity Policy and Anti-discrimination Policy and Grievance Procedures, found in Sections 2.1 and 2.2 of the Trustee Policy Manual (included in the Handbook for Professional Personnel as Appendix L).

In addressing and resolving workplace conflict, the Equal Employment Opportunity Office references Section 2.02 of the Handbook for Professional Personnel, which outlines what constitutes “Professional Conduct” at Western.

Our Staff

Photo of Marita Whalen.

Meet Marita Whalen

Marita brings a lifelong commitment to equity and public service to her role at Western. With experience in teaching, policy leadership, and global service, she has long advocated for inclusive practices and systemic change. She now works to ensure fair, empathetic conflict resolution and supports faculty and staff in creating culturally responsive, inclusive learning environments that uplift all students.

Equal Opportunity Office

Contact Information

8 AM-5 PM, Monday-Friday

Contact Location

Library 122A