Office of Access and Community
Seen, heard, valued
The Gies Business Office of Access and Community is actively engaged in fostering an inclusive learning and working environment where all are seen, heard, and valued. We provide leadership to units to implement data-informed strategies that empower future business leaders, faculty, and staff to be culturally aware, actively anti-racist, and equity-minded.
We support the College’s Commitments and Beliefs through our intentional and collaborative engagement with alumni, community members, and corporate partners to reduce inequity, expand access, and enhance belonging. We believe that a more equitable future is necessary and becomes possible with the sincere investment of all.
Strategic initiatives
Here’s how we put “seen, heard, valued” into practice:
- Consultative guidance for enhancing equity and inclusion
- Training and development opportunities
- Faculty and staff affinity groups
- Student affinity groups
Faculty and staff affinity groups
These groups strive to foster a supportive environment for participants, elevate their voices, and provide visibility and resources for others within the College. They host workshops, webinars, member socials, guest speakers, and special student-facing events.
- Black Faculty and Staff at Gies
- LGBTQ+ and Allies at Gies
- Women at Gies
Affinity groups are open to all faculty and staff. Email inclusion@business.illinois.edu to learn more.
Student affinity groups
Pride at Gies, an LGBTQ+ student
affinity group, is open to all undergraduates pursuing a major or minor
through Gies Business. To learn more or to inquire about other student
affinity groups, please email our office at inclusion@business.illinois.edu.
You can also find information for registered student organizations on Gies Groups.
Gies Business resources
- Access and Engagement for Undergraduates
- Embedded Counselor (assigned to Gies Business)
- Student Success
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