SUNY Downstate Medical Center Office of Diversity

I am pleased to reaffirm and share with you the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action Policies and Procedures for SUNY Downstate. These policies prohibit discrimination in the recruitment and education of students; in the recruitment, selection, hiring and all other terms and conditions of employment for faculty and staff and in the operation of SUNY Downstate's programs and activities. In accordance with applicable federal and state mandates and SUNY regulations, our policies apply to all persons without regard to race, age, sex, sexual orientation, color, religion, national origin, disability, marital status, or status as a veteran. The designated coordinator for compliance with all of SUNY Downstate's policies for EEO and Affirmative Action is Mr. Kevin Antoine, Director of Diversity & Affirmative Action. He can be reached by calling (718) 270-1738, the number for the Office of Diversity & Affirmative Action (ODAA). ODAA is a good resource for advice and guidance and serves both employees and students. It is located in the Administrative Facility Trailer, on 151 East 34th Street, and is accessible to persons with disabilities.

Also attached is an updated and revised policy regarding fraternization and consensual sexual relationships at Downstate. It replaces the former policy that strongly discouraged sexual relationships between supervisors and subordinates, and faculty and students. The Standing Committee on Employee Perceptions and Morale recommended, and I have endorsed, a new policy that prohibits such relationships to prevent conflicts of interest and the abuse of power in work and educational settings.

Employees and students who are disabled should also be aware that they may be entitled to reasonable accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act. For students, the primary contact is Dr. Lorraine Terracina, Dean of Student Affairs, at (718) 270-2187. For employees, the primary contact is Ms. Grace Callender, Reasonable Accommodation Officer, at (718) 270-1738. I urge each of you to become familiar with the respective policies and to follow them both in letter and in spirit. They constitute a critical foundation for good employee relations and genuine fairness in our working environment. SUNY Downstate has long been committed to maintaining a respectful, fair working and learning environment, free from discrimination or harassment. We seek to prevent discrimination from occurring and to provide an effective means of raising and promptly resolving complaints. I would urge any SUNY Downstate employee or student who feels that (s)he has not been treated fairly for reasons related to illegal discrimination to report formally to the OD&AA. The Office of Diversity & Affirmative Action is ready and able to respond to these issues and resolve them where possible. We will continue to take affirmative steps to support and advance these principles.