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June 10, 1999

University reinstitutes affirmative action award

University reinstitutes affirmative action award

The University is reviving a $1,000 annual award for contributions to affirmative action and diversity at Pitt.

Individuals, units and programs are eligible for the Chancellor's Affirmative Action and Diversity Award if they have engaged in activities or created initiatives that have:

* "Significantly increased access to, and full participation in, all aspects of the University functions by minorities and women and those who have been declared members of protected classes by executive order, legislation or court decisions."

* "Provided innovative approaches to increasing the diversity within the University communities in areas such as recruitment, retention, promotion, academic and other programming and business activities or enterprises."

* "Involved a consistent record of efforts and attention paid to the areas of affirmative action and diversity programs and other initiatives within the University community."

Nomination materials should be submitted by Dec. 3, 1999. Awardees will be acknowledged at the June 2000 meeting of Senate Council. For more information, contact the University Senate office, 624-6505.

The award was created by a 1986 gift by Maryann F. Coffey (then Pitt assistant to the president and director of affirmative action) and Joseph I. Coffey. But the award was last given in December 1990. Senate leaders and Chancellor Mark Nordenberg agreed this year to revive it.

Funds from the Coffeys' initial gift will be sufficient to fund next year's award. But, if necessary, the Chancellor's office will help fund the award in future years, Nordenberg pledged. "We can't afford to let this award lapse again," he said.

–Bruce Steele


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