TULSA, Okla. — In the wake of Governor Kevin Stitt's executive order barring state agencies and universities from supporting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), public colleges scrambled to respond.
Now – Oklahoma colleges and universities are speaking out. Some are more disappointed than others.
Oklahoma State Junior Jac-Barfield Cherry (They/Them) said they're disheartened having been involved in diversity programs and as an ambassador mentoring first-year students.
"A lot of my students are involved in these programs and rely on these programs for community, for scholarships, and to feel like they belong on campus," they told 2 News. But now they and many others feel it's getting taken away from them.
The order prohibits state agencies from using state funds for DEI programs. It also requires all public colleges and state agencies to report how much they spend on those programs.
"Let's take politics out of education, and let's just go help kids," Stitt said. "That's what we're all here to do. That's what our education system is supposed to do."
Cherry thinks DEI programs are helping students.
"They are not taking anyway anything from any other student," Cherry said. "They are just providing more resources for those students who need them."
2 News reached out to OU, OSU, RSU, NSU, TCC and Langston University to learn how they're responding to the new rules.
The University of Oklahoma
A spokesperson for OU said the university is disappointed the executive order eliminates DEI offices.
"While we are obligated to comply, the University of Oklahoma will always remain committed to its core principles that make OU a place of belonging where the American Dream is available to all," the university said in a statement. "We know, too, that our students, university community, and the citizens of Oklahoma also are resolute in their commitment to these values."
The school said its successes are due to its underlying values — "access and opportunity for all of those with the talent and work ethic to succeed; being a place of belonging for all who attend; dedication to free speech and inquiry; and civility in our treatment of each other."
OU said it will remain committed to ensuring an education from the University of Oklahoma remains accessible and available to all students and will continue to work to recruit and retain a workforce of the most talented and qualified minds that are representative of our state.
"The citizens of Oklahoma deserve nothing less," OU said.
Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma State University's President Kayse Shrum said the school will be sure to meet the new legal obligations.
That being said, after an initial review of OSU's processes and practices, Shrum said no significant changes are needed.
"OSU faculty, staff and students are guided by the Cowboy Code, which invigorates us with a “passion to do what’s right,” and united in the Cowboy Culture, which demands that “we treat every individual with dignity and respect and recognize that differences can serve to strengthen and enrich the fabric of life.” Those fundamental commitments will not change," she said.
Rogers State University
RSU said it's aware of Stitt's order and will comply with the mandates.
"As an institution of higher education, we will continue to provide the services necessary to allow all students opportunities to succeed, as well as protect our accreditations and affiliations,” the university said in a statement.
Tulsa Community College
TCC said it will review its practices to make sure it complies with the executive order.
“Tulsa Community College assists students from all parts of the community and from all backgrounds," the school said in a statement. "TCC will review our practices to ensure we are complying with the executive order while providing equal opportunities for all students to be successful. We will always be here to serve our students."
Langston University
"As a Historically Black College and University, Langston University has always offered a quality post-secondary education to diverse populations through academic research, community engagement, extension, and co-curricular experiences that lead to professional competence and degree completion," the university said in a statement.
"Although Langston University does not have a formal DEI office, there are many services such as ADA and Title IX intended to foster an inclusive environment. Similarly, programs supporting success for unique populations such as first-generation college students and our veterans also help to cultivate belonging. Our commitment to serving students remains our priority and we will continue to carry out our mission as we meet all legal obligations of the executive order."
We'll update with more statements as we get them.
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