October 3, 2018
Join the KSUnite conversations: Free speech and campus safety
Did you know that one of the major issues on college campuses across the nation is about free speech? In a 2016 study conducted by Gallup-Knight Foundation, the Charles Koch Foundation, and the Stanton Foundation, college students showed strong support for the First Amendment, however many also approved of limits on speech to foster an environment where diverse perspectives are respected; although they were uncertain of how this could be accomplished (Chokshi, 2018). Indeed, the study found eight themes including: Free expression is important, but so is diversity; and students support free speech, but increasingly favor limits.
K-State's position on free speech will be presented and discussed during the KSUnite breakout sessions on Tuesday, Oct. 9. Cheryl Strecker, K-State's general counsel, and Mirta Chavez, director of multicultural programs and services, will lead the discussion from 10-10:45 a.m. in the Big 12 Room, K-State Student Union.
Another topic of concern to college students is campus safety. College life introduces students to new environments, new experiences, and new people, but it also creates new challenges inside and outside the classroom. Whether from big or small cities, rural or urban, personal safety and security on campus are big concerns for students and parents across the country, according to ACOnline.org.
Assistant Vice President and Chief of Police Ronnie Grice will present "Campus Safety: Best strategies for safety both on and off campus" for another of the KSUnite breakout sessions. Come learn about K-State's police and public safety department and the support and services it offers to keep students, faculty and staff safe. This session is from 10-10:45 a.m. in the K-State Student Union's Cottonwood Room.
See a full schedule of KSUnite's events and breakout sessions on the KSUnite website and watch K-State Today this week for descriptions of other sessions.