University update on responses to incident following SGA dinner
The inquiry won't interfere with a criminal investigation already underway by the University Police Department. The police are investigating complaints of battery and disorderly conduct. Their report will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office, which will decide if there are prosecutable offenses.
President Bardo appointed Marche Fleming-Randle, his assistant for Diversity; Judy Espinoza, director of Human Resources; and, Jane Link, director of Equal Opportunity, to conduct the internal review under the university's non-discrimination policy.
Bardo, citing university policies and values, said: "Wichita State University is committed to maintaining a working, learning and living environment that is free from discrimination."
He said, "We've heard accounts of an incident last week in which political and philosophical differences between past and present student government presidents resulted in a confrontation involving parents of both presidents. Without judging any individual involved, we need to ensure that the university is a place where diversity of culture, thought and experience can thrive."
If the committee determines racial discrimination has occurred, they will recommend appropriate actions.
The university's Division of Student Affairs also announced Monday two opportunities for students to process their thoughts and feelings on recent events. Staff from the offices of Diversity and Inclusion and Counseling and Testing will be available to students for Tuesday and Wednesday listening sessions, (Strategic Communications to insert link).
Contact: Marche Fleming-Randle, assistant to the President for Diversity, marche.fleming-randle@wichita.edu, 316-978-6659
Wichita State has many resources for anyone wanting to discuss or report issues of discrimination.
- Office of Diversity and Inclusion
- Counseling Services
- Office of Equal Opportunity
- President's Diversity Council
- Vice President for Student Affairs
Assistant to the President for Diversity