Every month the Administrative/Professional (A/P) Council highlights an A/P staff member through a series of questions as another way for the Illinois State community to connect. This month readers can get to know Jeff Lange, assistant director, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) coordinator and deputy Title IX coordinator for the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access (OEOA).
As assistant director for OEOA, what do you do?
In my position within the OEOA, I am tasked with conducting investigations into allegations of violations of the University’s Anti-Harassment and Non-Discrimination policy by students, faculty, and staff. We also provide training to the entire campus community related to civil rights issues in the workplace, including sexual harassment, the ADA, Title IX, and other areas that our office covers. As the University’s ADA coordinator, I respond to all employee requests for reasonable accommodations under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). I also work with campus partners to help ensure compliance with campus accessibility under the ADA. Lastly, as the deputy Title IX coordinator, I work with campus partners to provide training and outreach to campus and community members related to sexual violence on campus. This includes providing training and conducting investigations in compliance with federal and state law.
How long have you been an employee at Illinois State?
Six and a half years
What do you love most about working at Illinois State?
My favorite part about working at ISU is the collaboration that occurs with faculty, staff, students, and members of the community. I have always found working with our campus and community partners to be incredibly rewarding, as the individuals are open to new ideas while sharing their own experiences. This allows for better outcomes and lends to the collaborative environment.
What is one fact about yourself that might surprise people?
I own a collection of approximately 60 board games.
When you’re not working, what are you most likely doing?
I am most likely fishing, camping, and spending time with my fiancé, Annie.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
I enjoy Hovey Hall, where my office is located. I am constantly running into familiar faces and enjoy catching up. Also, with Admissions being located in the building, there are always groups of new students and their friends or families participating in a campus visit, and their excitement is always enjoyable.
If you could have a meal with one famous person (living or deceased), who would it be and why?
I would have a meal with Abraham Lincoln. Growing up in Central Illinois we spent a lot of time learning about Lincoln and his ties to Illinois. I think it would be interesting to hear him tell what it was like to make difficult decisions, both personally and professionally. Also, I think it would be interesting to tell him some of the stories that are told about him today and see which ones are accurate.
