News Summary
Students at Kennesaw State University express deep concerns over a federal executive order that could impact diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. The potential restructuring or elimination of identity-based student centers has raised significant worries among students. KSU’s administration reassures commitment to student support while navigating federal regulations. Amid these challenges, community incidents including a tragic murder, a police chase, and safety alerts add to local tension, while the university announces new infrastructural improvements.
Kennesaw, Georgia – Students Rally Against Federal Order Impacting Diversity Programs
Students at Kennesaw State University (KSU) are expressing deep concern as they believe their beloved programs and learning spaces are facing potential fallout from a federal executive order issued by the Trump administration. The decision raises questions about how the university can maintain its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) amidst tightening regulations.
A voice of worry among students, Jean Delfin, highlights the critical intersection between implementing new changes in DEI and preserving vital student resources. Rumors are swirling around campus that identity-based student centers and programs might be restructured or even eliminated in light of the recent mandates.
In response to these concerns, KSU has issued a statement reiterating its commitment to comply with federal and state laws, while ensuring that all students continue to receive necessary support and resources.
Crime Wave: Serious Incidents in the Area
The community is reeling from a tragic case involving a young woman found dead in a Doraville apartment. Pedro Jose Zalazar-Chilel, a 19-year-old from Atlanta, has been charged with murder and rape. The 16-year-old victim, Angelina Vargas-Lagunes, has sparked outrage, although initial reports from the DeKalb County medical examiner do not indicate foul play.
In another alarming incident, police in South Fulton are calling for help to identify a man who was caught on video leaving an unsettling scene involving “bodily fluids” at a local church.
A police chase that ended in a harrowing two-car crash in Buckhead has left the intersection of Peachtree Road NE and Piedmont Road NE closed for hours, escalating tensions in the area.
In Midland, a family is mourning the loss of two loved ones—a former police officer and his father—who tragically perished during an EF-1 tornado that swept through the region.
Community Outrage and Concerns
Positive Developments Amidst Challenges
KSU President Kathy Schwaig has been vocal about the necessity for infrastructural improvements at the university and has unveiled plans aimed at increasing graduation rates, which currently stand around 21% for four years and just under 50% for six years. Recent investments include a new $50 million residence hall and a $60 million Interdisciplinary STEM building at the Marietta campus.
To cater to the growing number of students, KSU is also working on enhancing on-campus housing options while ensuring better engagement among students to support timely graduation.
Despite facing challenges related to parking and infrastructure, KSU has received accolades for its remarkable growth under Schwaig’s leadership, which has included a significant uptick in research awards and fundraising efforts.
Controversy Looms as Laws Change
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Atlanta Launches New Initiative to Support Student-Athletes
Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First: 7 Anti-DEI Policies Threaten KSU Programs, Students Say
- Wikipedia: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- MDJ Online: KSU President Addresses Graduation Rates, Growth, and DEI
- Google Search: Kennesaw State University
- The College Fix: University System of Georgia’s Board Cracked Down on DEI
- Google Scholar: DEI in Education
- AJC: The Importance of Resisting Anti-DEI Directives in Education
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Diversity in Education
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
