Photo courtesy of Ryan Saddler.
DAVENPORT, IA – Iowa’s recent introduction of anti-Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) bill, Iowa House Bill 60 (HSB 60) prohibits private higher education institutions from receiving funding from the state tuition grant programs while establishing, sustaining or staffing DEI programs or offices.
St. Ambrose Bees are now buzzing about the new bill amidst the closing of St. Ambrose University (SAU)’s Office of Student Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. SAU students use state financial aid programs to lower the overall cost of attendance.
“It’s a waiting game for us,” explains a student DEI Work Study employee. “I’m not sure if I will even have a job once everything is settled. I just hope people remember the work we’ve done in the future. So many people don’t know how much work is done behind the scenes.”
Sophomore Black Student Union Vice President, Yulnia Green, expresses frustration regarding stigmas around DEI, “A lot of people hear it [DEI] and assume race. It’s like there are so many half-truths and misconceptions. I just always encourage people to stay informed.”
St. Ambrose’s Office of Student Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion provides resources for student support, holds campus events and programs to inform and celebrate, and assesses institutional policies. The Office’s more noteworthy programs include: Welcome Week Block Parties, Free Food Fridays, and the Cultural Stole Donning Ceremonies for graduates.
While there are critics of the new bill, some students suggest that resources or state grant funds could be used more efficiently in other areas.
A senior data science and analytics major, who chose to remain anonymous, supports the bill saying, “DEI sounds ideal, but isn’t practical. I think colleges should focus on academics over extracurricular programs.”
“It is a waste of time trying to force people to understand why diversity or equity is important. At the end of the day, there will always be people who fight against it,” explains SAU 2022 graduate, Jeremiah Jolly. “It’s better to put the funding somewhere else. Maybe the halls can be updated.”
“The Office is now considering a new title, with ‘Student Access, Opportunity, and Community’ and ‘Student Opportunity and Engagement’ being potential options,” explains Fritz Dieudonné, the current Office’s Coordinator.
SAU President Amy Novak says the university continues to honor its mission through these challenging times. “It is essential that our efforts stay aligned with the theological and historical foundation of our faith – ensuring that our work in inclusion, justice, and respect for all continues to honor the intrinsic worth of every individual,” she writes to the students. “Our commitment to diversity is not just a policy; it is a reflection of our faith in action.”
The Buzz will continue its coverage of changes in DEI throughout the spring semester.
Brandi Crawley is a staff writer for The Buzz.
