Jasmin Espinosa EDINBURG – After Texas lawmakers proposed a $400 million cut to public universities, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick said universities should receive even less if they do not comply with ban on DEI activities.
Patrick Gonzales, Vice President for University Marketing and Communications, said the DEI ban had to be implemented by Jan.1, 2024.
“If you remember, [Senate Bill] 17 was actually passed the last legislative session,” Gonzales said. “… So, the status of our plan is it’s been implemented for over a year.”
In the 89th Texas Legislature both the House and Senate are recommending zero dollars for the institutional enhancement fund, which helps universities develop new programs at the undergraduate, graduate and professional level.
As Texas lawmakers propose the cuts, Dan Patrick threatened even less funding over DEI at the Texas Policy Summit last month.
Gonzales said UTRGV is complying with the DEI ban, so it does not represent a threat to the university.
“So, we really took our time to review and to audit all the programs at the university to make sure we were compliant with law [on] Jan. 1, and we will continue to do what we need to do to remain complaint and not jeopardize the institution receiving funding,” he said.
A couple of college students said they disagree with the statewide ban on DEI.
Rebecca Leal, Texas Southmost College Associate Nursing student, said she disagrees with the DEI programs closing in schools and the university should offer other opportunities.
“It’s not a very good thing,” Leal said. “Like it’s not really on them, but it’s pretty unfortunate, right, but I think the schools can, you know, just keep that door open to diversity, you know, and inclusivity.”
Mariely Morales, a psychology sophomore, said the DEI programs help students in universities feel welcome and taking them away will not benefit universities.
“I don’t think it would benefit schools,” Morales said. “I think it takes away from student opportunities. So, I don’t think they should close them down.” To learn about the University of Texas System SB 17 guidance, visit its website.
