Freedom of expression resources at K-State
Provost Mendez and Vice President Lane address the university’s commitment to freedom of speech and expression, as well as resources available to the university community to support civil discourse and an atmosphere of mutual respect.
Monday, Aug. 25, 2025
Dear K-State community,
As we begin a new academic year, we extend a warm welcome to all students, faculty and staff — both returning and new. We are excited for the academic year ahead and the promise it holds for each and every one of you, and we want to make sure you know that at K-State, you have a tremendous infrastructure of support available to you as you collectively learn, grow, teach, research and engage.
This academic year, as in years past, we recognize that events across the globe, nation, state and even across our own campuses may generate passionate perspectives and lively debate. As a public institution, K-State is firmly committed to upholding the principles of free expression. Our policies protect the rights of individuals to speak, listen, and engage — as long as those expressions do not disrupt the functioning of the university or infringe upon the rights of others.
Universities play a vital role in fostering civil discourse and intellectual exploration, and they are a place where many ideas and viewpoints come together.
As Wildcats, we have the opportunity — and responsibility — to model thoughtful engagement. That includes listening actively, debating respectfully and approaching difficult conversations with empathy and curiosity. Whether in the classroom, at campus events, in an online course forum or through informal interactions, we can each contribute to a university environment where every person feels seen, heard and valued.
Our free expression policies and guidance reflect the university’s responsibility as a public institution to protect open dialogue and the exchange of ideas — even in times of change or uncertainty. We encourage you to review these resources available to you.
To our new students — if you’re unsure about what’s permitted or would like someone to talk to about ways to engage in expressive activity, there are many people and offices on campus ready to support you. The offices of Student Belonging, Student Programs and Involvement, and Student Support and Accountability are resources available to help you navigate these topics and continue to find meaningful ways to connect and express yourself.
To all university employees — students, faculty and staff — your direct supervisor is a tremendous front-line resource to you regarding any questions you may have. And if your supervisor doesn’t have the answer, they will know where to connect you to help you navigate your questions. Please remember that as you engage in expressive activities, you must also be mindful of policies that apply to you as a state employee, including political activity policies and the acceptable use policy for technology. As a reminder, you may not use your university role or resources — which includes your university email and signature — to make personal political and/or ideological statements or endorsements.
We’re grateful for the care, curiosity and compassion you bring to K-State each day. Thank you for continuing to make our community stronger through thoughtful dialogue and mutual respect.
Jesse Perez Mendez
Provost and Executive Vice President
Thomas Lane
Vice President for Academic Success and Student Affairs and Dean of Students