The Office of Minority Affairs (OMA) was created in 1970 to provide leadership for The Ohio State University in supporting the success of minority students, faculty, and staff. OMA directly serves and celebrates the contributions of African Americans, Appalachians, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, Native Americans, and Hispanic Americans. The office emphasizes the recruitment, retention, and timely graduation of undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. OMA promotes a welcoming climate and serves in an advocacy role for minority individuals both at Ohio State and in the larger community.