Education's Multicultural Programs Office changes name to better reflect mission

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The office previously known as the Multicultural Programs Office in Penn State's College of Education has a new name to better reflect its mission.

The Office of Education and Social Equity (OESE) works to foster equity and inclusion by creating educational opportunities and experiences, raising awareness and developing strategies and tools to enhance intercultural, racial/ethnic competence.

"Our office remains focused on providing historically underserved and minoritized students the support, opportunities and resources that enhance their educational experience and facilitate their academic well-being," said Maria Schmidt, assistant dean for education and social equity. "For many students, OESE is not only a place to access and navigate resources but is a home away from home. Concurrently, our office will continue to work in the development and implementation of partnerships and collaborations in support of research and practices for the advancement of education justice, equity and inclusion in all its forms."

Aligned and grounded on Penn State’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion values, the Office of Education and Social Equity is committed to:

• Foster and maintain a safe environment of respect and inclusion for all members of our college community.
• Educate our college faculty, staff and students to be social justice advocates, developing and providing equity framed curricula, practices, programs and environments.
• Provide fair and inclusive access to our programs, resources and services, and ensuring our policies and practices are inclusive and equitable.
• Address intergroup disparities in representation, retention, learning outcomes and graduation rates.

The Office of Education and Social Equity is located in 123 Chambers Building.