The Bias Response Team (BRT)
At Western Oregon University, we are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment for all members of our community. We stand united in our belief that bias, in any form, has no place on our campus.
We denounce all acts of discrimination, prejudice, and inequality. Every individual—regardless of race, gender, sexuality, ability, religion, or any other characteristic—deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. We acknowledge that bias can harm not only those directly affected but also the integrity of our academic and social environment.
We want to make it clear that Western Oregon University will not tolerate bias or discriminatory behavior. When such incidents occur, we will respond swiftly and appropriately, in accordance with our values and policies. We are committed to holding ourselves accountable to the highest standards of fairness and equity and will work continuously to ensure that our campus remains a place where everyone feels welcome and supported.
WOU is a community where diversity is celebrated and bias is not tolerated. Thank you for being part of this important mission.
Where to Report Bias
The Incident Reporting Form is available to report any concern about discrimination, discriminatory harassment, and bias based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, or national or ethnic origin committed by or against any WOU community member.
In addition to using the online reporting form, community members are encouraged to seek assistance from a trusted resource on campus, including advisors, department heads, someone in their living group, or other campus resources.
The Bias Response Process
The Bias Response Team (BRT) is a working group of subject matter experts who strategize how to address reported incidents of bias and discrimination impacting the WOU community. Together with other campus stakeholders, the BRT provides recommendations on education and outreach as appropriate.
When a bias or discrimination-related incident is reported to the BRT, the BRT offers to meet with the reporting party to provide supportive services and resolution options. The BRT may identify intervention actions for the affected individual and/or community, and outreach as appropriate with the WOU community about the incident.
The BRT is meant to supplement, not supplant, the responsibilities of other groups at WOU devoted to addressing bias and discrimination experienced by students and employees. There may be circumstances where the BRT may recommend referral of an individual to another group, office, or resource for support and assistance. In particular, allegations of bias or discrimination alleged to have been committed by WOU employees may be referred to WOU Human Resources, and the BRT will work closely with the Office of Student Conduct and the Title IX office to address any student violations of WOU policies. In addition, complaints alleging bias or discrimination in connection with academic decisions will generally be addressed in the relevant academic department.
Bias Response Team Membership
- Maria Bonifacio-Sample, Director of Student Conduct, (bonifaciosamplem@wou.edu)
- Sara Glascock, Title IX Coordinator, (glascocksl@wou.edu)
- Mike Hanson, Associate Director of Campus Public Safety, (hansonm@wou.edu)
- Malissa Larson, Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, (larsonm@wou.edu)
- Desiree Noah, Chief Human Resource Officer, (noahd@wou.edu)
- Kirsty Pinchuk, Director of Human Resources (pinchukk@wou.edu)
- Judy Sylva, Vice President of Academic Affairs/Associate Provost for Academic Effectiveness, (sylvaj@wou.edu)
Other colleagues and departments from across the University, including the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Disability and Access Services, Student Support Services, Mental Health & Counseling, and others will be consulted as needed for case-specific issues.
