Harvard Retains President, Apparently Gender Non-Conforming Folks Make Their Coworkers Uncomfortable, & DEI Continues to be Challenged in Higher Ed

In today’s DEI in 5:

• Harvard President Claudine Gay to remain, university leaders affirm support

• Gender Non-Conforming Workers Make Their Colleagues Uncomfortable, Data Says

• Gov. Kevin Stitt to sign executive order calling for review of DEI programs in higher education

• Anti-DEI movement expands in politics, business and academics

• Supreme Court to decide whether to restrict abortion drug nationwide

Read time: 3 minutes

Harvard President Claudine Gay to remain, university leaders affirm support

Summary: Harvard University President Claudine Gay will continue in her role, affirmed by university leaders, amidst criticism over her handling of antisemitism issues and the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The Details:

• Support for President Gay: The Harvard board reaffirmed its support for President Gay, emphasizing confidence in her leadership amidst societal challenges.

• Response to Antisemitism: Gay faced criticism for her responses to questions about antisemitism and Harvard policies, leading to calls for her resignation from lawmakers and alumni.

• University's Stance on Antisemitism: The Harvard Corporation acknowledged missteps and Gay's apology, committing to a stronger stance against antisemitism.

• Differences in Leadership Fate: Contrasting with the resignation of University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill under similar circumstances, Gay retained her position, supported by faculty and alumni petitions.

• Campus Response: Students expressed support for Gay, valuing her commitment to free speech and leadership amid difficult circumstances.

• Concerns Over Academic Integrity: The Harvard board addressed concerns about Gay’s dissertation, concluding that while there were citation issues, there was no violation of research misconduct standards.

Why is this relevant: President Gay's retention and the support she received underscore the complex dynamics of university leadership in addressing sensitive societal issues like antisemitism. Her situation reflects the challenges faced by academic leaders in balancing free speech, community expectations, and political pressures, which are increasingly pertinent in today's higher education landscape.

Gender Non-Conforming Workers Make Their Colleagues Uncomfortable, Data Says

Summary: Coqual's report reveals significant challenges faced by gender non-conforming employees in the workplace, highlighting a gap in workplace inclusivity and acceptance.

The Details:

• Workplace Struggles: 60% of gender-diverse employees face negative stereotypes; trans professionals often experience misgendering and discomfort among peers.

• Coqual's CEO Insights: CEO Lanaya Irvin calls for inclusive policies to support marginalized gender identities.

• Related LGBTQ+ Worker Concerns: Similar challenges for LGBTQ+ workers, including fears of career and job impacts due to sexual identity.

• Need for Inclusive Policies: The report emphasizes creating equitable workplaces through gender-inclusive strategies.

Why is this relevant: This report highlights the critical need for enhanced DEI efforts focusing on gender inclusivity in the workplace, demonstrating the importance of accepting and supporting diverse gender identities for a more equitable and inclusive work environment.

Gov. Kevin Stitt to sign executive order calling for review of DEI programs in higher education

Summary: Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt is set to sign an executive order for a comprehensive review of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in the state's higher education institutions, mirroring similar actions in Florida and Texas.

The Details:

• DEI Review Directive: The order mandates evaluation of DEI roles and activities in state universities.

• Precedents in Florida and Texas: These states have already banned DEI funding, causing concerns and debates.

• OU's Response: OU anticipates the review, with discussions involving key diversity officers.

• Political Opinions: Sen. Rob Standridge criticizes DEI for discrimination, while Rep. Jacob Rosecrants views the order as potentially harmful and illegal.

• Potential Legal Challenges: Similar actions have faced legal opposition, indicating possible challenges to this order.

Why is this relevant: This executive order signals a critical juncture in the national conversation about DEI in higher education, spotlighting the balance between inclusivity efforts and criticisms. The decision may influence the future of DEI programs across the U.S., highlighting the evolving dynamics of diversity and inclusion in academia.