OHIO's Employee Affinity Organizations are part of the university's collective efforts to leverage diversity to improve productivity, create a sense of togetherness and ensure that employees experience a greater sense of engagement and belonging, which in turn has a direct impact on student recruitment and persistence. Affinity organizations are formed around a shared identity, common bond and a commitment to invest in the professional development of historically marginalized or underrepresented groups of faculty and staff.
To receive support and recognition from the University, the organization's membership must be open to any and all interested employees around the affinity topic or identity; have a clear sense of purpose, including a mission statement that contributes to the larger University’s mission and core values; have a public presence such as, website and email, and meet as a whole at least two times per year. Recognition provides access to services, benefits, and support available through the Division of Diversity and Inclusion.
The Division of Diversity and Inclusion and University Human Resources supports these groups in promoting a sense of belonging and providing a community for our employees. We encourage the formation of new affinity organizations and would like to support any employees interested in starting one.
Ohio University's recognized Employee Affinity Organizations
AAPI - LEAD
AAPI-LEAD fosters networking, professional development, awareness, and support for Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islanders at Ohio University. It also serves as a resource for the larger AAPI community in Athens and Regional Higher Education (RHE) locations. AAPI-LEAD seeks to elevate awareness and advocate for the diverse needs of OHIO AAPI members through educational, cultural, and social activities. AAPI-LEAD aligns with OHIO’s inclusive excellence and strategic goals, as well as provides leadership regarding OHIO AAPI faculty, staff, student, and alumni issues.
For more information: aapi@ohio.edu
COESAD
Council of Employees and Staff of African Descent (COESAD) is geared towards faculty, staff, and graduate students of African descent at Ohio University. COESAD hosts various themed events throughout the year. Programming covers a wide array of events and typically includes a Welcome Roundup in early fall and an end of the year celebration in spring, in addition to supporting other campus events such as the Black Alumni Reunion (BAR).
For more information: Acie Clayborne, clayborne@ohio.edu
Fat Liberation @ OHIO
Out OHIO
Out OHIO promotes efforts that connect LGBTQ employees with one another, increase visibility and inclusion of LGBTQ people in the OHIO community, and build solidarity with people across all identities and lived experience.
For more information: OutOHIO@ohio.edu
The Ohio University Women's Club
OUWC is a social organization for women employees, spouses/partners and alum of Ohio University. The club provides a unique support system to members of all ages, sharing a passion for and support of the Ohio University and Athens communities. With interest groups offering monthly wine tastings, lunch uptown, dinner parties, book clubs and movie nights, there is something for everyone.
For more information: ouwc@ohio.edu
Sick and Disabled OHIOans
University Interfaith Association
UIA is an association of clergy and campus ministers from the Athens religious community committed to meeting the religious and spiritual needs of Ohio University students, faculty and staff. Members of UIA provide advice and counsel on matters of campus religious activity and student spiritual development.
For more information: Rev. Robert Martin, rmartin@athensfpc.org