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K-State Today

December 4, 2014

A message from the administration

Submitted by Kirk Schulz and April Mason

The university family applauds recent efforts by the Black Student Union, Staley School of Leadership Studies and other groups to have a wide-ranging dialogue on racial tensions. Given recent national events, this thoughtful approach is a shining example of student and campus leadership. We encourage all students, faculty and staff to engage in conversation about how we can be respectful in our differences.

In stark contrast to these positive efforts, another dialogue has been taking place behind the anonymity of social media. On these platforms, the dialogue has been base, racist and often hateful. This reflects poorly on the entire K-State family and even more poorly on the individuals who are making these posts. The K-State community is better than this and we expect more of ourselves.

Please continue to talk about these important issues with respect, even when emotions are high. These conversations are as important to our collective future as they have been to our collective past. If you are not familiar with the K-State Principles of Community, we ask that you please take time to read them:

We affirm the inherent dignity and value of every person and strive to maintain an atmosphere of justice based on respect for each other.

We affirm the value of human diversity for community.

We affirm the right of each person to freely express thoughts and opinions in a spirit of civility and decency. We believe that diversity of views enriches our learning environment, and we promote open expression within a climate of courtesy, sensitivity, and mutual respect.

We affirm the value of honesty and integrity. We will operate with honesty in all professional endeavors and expect the same from our colleagues.

We acknowledge that we are a part of multiple communities, and we have an obligation to be engaged in a positive way with our civic partners.

We recognize our individual obligations to the university community and to the principles that sustain it. We will each strive to contribute to a positive spirit that affirms learning and growth for all members of the community.

Please take these principles to heart and think before you speak or post. Above all else, respect your fellow members of the K-State family.

Sincerely,

President Kirk Schulz
Provost and Senior Vice President April Mason