K-State wants to do better with diversity

Samuel and President Richard Myers said they want to update the university’s language regarding diversity so everyone feels more included. Myers said the racial tensions that prompted the initial KSUnite event — where the university took a stance against racism on campus — gave them pause to talk to students, faculty and staff and see what they can do.

“We learned there was more opportunity for us to promote a university culture where individuals from all racial, ethnic identities, ages, nationalities, social and economic strata, sexual orientation, gender identity, (gender) expression, religious, political and ideological perspectives, and physical and mental abilities can thrive, can engage and be respected,” Myers said.

In 2018, the university saw one of the biggest retention of first-generation students — 85 percent — and one of the largest groups of underrepresented students — 12.5 percent of all graduates — earning a degree from the university.

Each college has seen an increase in enrollment, hiring or participation in events related to diversity, Samuel said. Colleges like Arts and Sciences added three more courses to their curriculum this past year that have a multicultural focus or section of the course.

He said other K-State entities, like Athletics and its campuses at Olathe and Salina, have also increased awareness with efforts such as town halls, increased focus on recruiting underrepresented students and hiring new people who will focus on recruiting and retention.

Samuel said the university has made strides in breaking down barriers and connecting gaps, but there are still areas that can be improved, like helping certain groups of students, faculty and staff. He said the university is not sure exactly what will work best but wants to explore options on how to “make them feel engaged and valued.”

Samuel said they will continue with efforts regarding KSUnite and will have an announcement soon regarding the fall event.

He said this year, the K-State community can expect a broader engagement across campus, as he wants to have housing and dining and other entities get more involved in the event, as well as bringing in more voices to the planning process.

“We’re responsible for defining our community, we can’t let others do it. And we don’t want anybody else to do it,” Myers said. “We want to define who we are, because it’s us.

“We live it everyday. It’s what we stand for, and we need to act consistently. And each day, we want to do a little bit better.”