President Donald Trump has issued an executive order affecting countless diversity, equality, and inclusion programs across the nation, putting the purpose of the programs under a microscope.
Iowa lawmakers are now following suit with HSB 60, a bill that would eliminate DEI offices at private universities. Students at SAU believe it is important for everyone to understand this office’s purpose and what DEI actually does for a university.
SAU freshman, Melissa Escutia says, “DEI ensures inclusivity for everybody.” SAU freshman Lillie Springer says, “We are mainly a resource for any type of student to come and just feel like they have a place here.”
Associate Vice President Ryan Saddler is focused on continuing his commitment to SAU’s mission, while still following the new law. Ryan says, “The reality is that we have to get work done.” Ryan and the diversity, equality, and inclusion office at SAU are focusing on how they can continue to be there for the students who they have always been there for.
Saddler’s goal is to, “continue to allow students to live out their God-given dignity and worth.” He hopes to encourage students to acknowledge the fact that students are human regardless of their social location, race, or how they identify themselves. Ryan’s ultimate hope is “that students will still have something in place for them.”
Diversity, equality, and inclusion programs are set in place to give students the insurance of a place that they can go to and know they belong. President Trump’s executive order is currently being passed through, but the effects are still yet to unfold.
Failure to comply with federal and state legislation could lead to a loss of funding for private colleges and universities. For more on how this could affect SAU, catch our What’s the Buzz interview with SAU President Amy Novak.
