Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – A-State Chancellor Todd Shields released a statement Sunday evening in response to reports of “hateful and deeply inappropriate behavior” on campus.
The statement comes after a recording was published online that alleges a resident advisor (RA) was heard saying a racial slur.
The statement from Shields reads:
“Over the past week, our university has received reports of hateful and deeply inappropriate behavior on our campus. These incidents are being taken very seriously, and investigations are underway by the appropriate offices.
Let me be clear: this type of behavior has no place at Arkansas State. It is not consistent with our institutional values and the standards we uphold as an academic community.
At A-State, we are committed to fostering a learning environment where everyone feels safe, supported and a true sense of belonging. While we honor each person’s individual beliefs and values, we also expect all members of our community to act with integrity and accountability in both their words and their actions.
If you have witnessed or experienced behavior that undermines this commitment, I urge you to report it. The university provides a centralized reporting system for all members of our community at https://www.AState.edu/Report. You can also find this link in the footer of our website under “File a Report.”
Let us continue working together to build a campus where every student, faculty member, and staff member can thrive.”
The A-State National Pan-Hellenic Council also issued a statement on Instagram Saturday referencing the reported incidents. It reads:
“We, the National Pan-Hellenic Council, do not condone racism, discrimination, or hate in any form. Our organizations are rooted in unity, service, leadership, and justice, and we remain firm in our commitment to those values.
We are aware of the reported incidents and acknowledge that they are currently under review, and under investigation. We respect the process and remain committed to transparency and accountability.
This is our call to social action.
We call on our members, partners, and communities to stand with us in rejecting discrimination, holding one another accountable, and actively working toward equity and respect. As members of the Divine Nine at Arkansas State University, we stand united in action -supporting our communities, amplifying justice, and continuing to work toward meaningful change for all persons.”
JRN will provide updates to this story and the investigation as they are available.
