About Access

Office of Institutional Access (OIA)

The Office of Institutional Access works to create an equitable, welcoming, and opportunity-rich environment for faculty, staff, students, alumni, and our surrounding communities. We advance access by identifying and removing barriers, closing opportunity gaps, and fostering conditions for success. Through collaboration, innovation, and accountability, we strive to ensure that all members of our community can thrive and contribute fully to the life of the College of Social Science.

 


ACCESS: the transformative power of education

Access means more than just the ability to attend classes, teach, or work—it means empowering every member of our community to dream bigger, reach higher, and make a difference. It’s about giving every student, faculty member, and staff the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their background. Because when you have access to education, resources, and support, you have access to a world of possibilities.

OIA supports access, supports futures.

 

 


Meet the Team

Nwando Achebe 

Associate Dean for Access Faculty Development, and Strategic Implementation; Director of OIA; University Distinguished Professor

READ BIO

Veda Hawkins

Assistant Dean for Access and Undergraduate Education; Associate Director of OIA

READ BIO

Victoria Pierce

Access Office Manager

READ BIO

Ashley Hayden

Access and Retention Specialist

READ BIO