OFFICE OF ACCESS & COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
ABOUT OUR OFFICE
Haslam’s Office of Access and Community Connections (OACC) offers a variety of programs, organizations and services designed to provide support to Haslam students, faculty, staff, stakeholders and the community. The OACC team, in connection with campus partners and community organizations, provides mentorship, academic support, leadership and professional development and resources to foster intellectual growth and support the university’s mission of advancing access and opportunity. The OACC strives to create a sense of belonging where all may thrive and achieve success. The office works in accordance with the university’s land grant mission and the UT System’s Statement of Aspirations.
Access
Ensuring access to the college’s services, programs, and resources for prospective and current students, faculty, and staff.
Support
Promoting access, belonging, and fairness within the college and the broader community through events, proactive advocacy and support of initiatives that foster civility and a sense of belonging for all.
Connections
Nurturing positive relationships and partnerships between the college and its stakeholders (including faculty, staff, and students, alumni, businesses, governmental bodies, non-profit organizations, and residents of the community) through programming, networking, communication, and collaboration efforts to maintain strong ties.
Office of Access & Community Connections
How We Can Help
Haslam’s OACC is here to serve the college’s student population, as well as faculty, staff and community members. We offer several opportunities for professional and leadership development, networking, career preparation, college improvement and various other programs and efforts that aid in creating a positive education environment.
We offer programs, mentorship opportunities and initiatives for students at various stages in their academic careers. High school students interested in learning more about college and business are invited to apply to one of our four summer programs, which include:
Current Haslam undergraduate and graduate students benefit from guidance, mentoring, leadership development and more. Student programs and opportunities include:
The OACC also provides enrichment opportunities for Haslam faculty and staff. The office’s Professional Development Fund support continuous learning and professional development for staff. Haslam faculty and staff also make up the Connections and Engagement Council, which works to unite the strategic initiatives of the college.
Office of Access & Community Connections
Who We Support
Students
We empower students by providing academic and personal support, ensuring they have the resources and encouragement needed to excel.
Community
We are committed to building strong communities both within and beyond the university.
Faculty/Staff
We provide support and advocacy for faculty and staff, ensuring that their voices are heard and their contributions valued.
Office of Access & Community Connections
Our Programs
BETS Program
The Business Education for Talented Students (BETS) program introduces talented rising high school seniors to all aspects of business.
AIM Academy
The Aim Academy is a summer program for talented high school students interested in learning more about accounting and information management.
WEB Institute
WEB Institute is a summer program designed specifically for talented high school students interested in technology and business.
SCM Summer Camp
The SCM program is an opportunity for talented high school students to learn all about the world of supply chain.
Veteran’s Appreciation Events
The Office of Access and Community Connections (OACC) hosts and annual reception honoring Haslam military veterans.
TakeOff Program
The OACC TakeOff Program helps first-generation freshmen navigate college.
Sophomore Mentoring Program
The Sophomore Mentoring Program helps second-year Haslam students learn how to navigate the rest of their undergraduate college careers.
Professional Development Fund
The Professional Development Fund focuses on continued learning and development for staff.
BETS Scholars Program
The Office of Access & Community Connections in the Haslam College of Business sponsors, the BETS Scholars Program (BSP). BSP is designed for students who have received an annual scholarship for completing the Business Education for Talented Students (BETS) Program.
Connections and Engagement Council
The Haslam College of Business is proudly home to a Connections and Engagement Council that supports the continued growth of connections and engagement.
Community Advancement Program
The Community Advancement Program (CAP) is a selective program that provides students with the opportunity to hone in on their leadership and interpersonal skills while expanding their personal network and advancing initiatives in the Haslam College of Business.
Professional Development Trips
The Office of Access and Community Connections takes selected students on professional development trips during the Fall and Spring semesters.
Mosaic Talks
The Office of Access and Community Connections highlights Haslam Alumni by providing students with access to networking and discussions from alumni regarding ways to navigate and transition upon graduation.
Information Sessions
Information sessions focus on continued learning and development.
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Benefits, membership, attendance, and all events associated with programming for faculty, staff, community groups, and high school and prospective students are open to all members of the aforementioned communities. All audiences receive equal consideration by the college and the university.