State Legislators Grill University of Alaska Board of Regents Appointees Over DEI Decision
Last week, state legislators questioned two University of Alaska Board of Regents appointees following criticism over the board’s decision to remove mentions of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) from university communications. The issue arose after a February vote to scrub DEI references, prompting concerns about transparency in the board’s decision-making process.
During an April 2 Senate Education Committee confirmation hearing, Sen. Löki Tobin, D-Anchorage, expressed disappointment in the decision, emphasizing the importance of consulting the university community before such changes are made. Tobin, who is also a Ph.D. student at the University of Alaska Anchorage, stated that many students and colleagues feel unheard and unseen.
The Board of Regents, consisting of 11 members with varying term lengths, including an appointed student regent, is responsible for overseeing the university system. Anchorage-based Regent Christine Resler, one of the appointees under consideration, defended the decision, noting the challenge it posed for the community while expressing a commitment to supporting students, faculty, and alumni through potential future changes from the federal government.
Regent Karen Perdue, who was also reappointed this year, stressed the importance of maintaining a stable environment to address federal directives that may arise. Both appointees, Resler and Perdue, are expected to have their confirmations reviewed at an upcoming joint legislative session.
Senate President Gary Stevens, R-Kodiak, raised questions about accreditation and research within the UA system during the hearing. The ongoing discussion highlights the complexities surrounding the DEI decision and the need for collaboration between university leadership, legislators, and the broader community.
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