In keeping with its long-standing traditions and policies, the University of Chicago, in admissions, employment, and access to programs, considers students on the basis of individual merit and without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, or other factors irrelevant to participation in the programs of the University. The Affirmative Action Officer (702-5671) is the University's official responsible for coordinating its adherence to this policy and the related federal and state laws and regulations (including Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended).