On behalf of NADOHE President, Benjamin D. Reese, Jr. :

NADOHE is cognizant of recent national events and would like to share this official response:

Students traditionally have been the catalyst for change in American higher education through their activism and questioning of institutional and societal systems. They engage in this activity primarily because they are hopeful that they can make a difference by striving for a better world and believe they have a role to play in ending injustice, intolerance, and the wrongs that exist in society.  This was true in the 1950’s and 1960’s when students staged sit-ins and participated in protest marches that led to the dismantling of Jim Crow laws, and many lost their lives and suffered humiliations as they stood against racism and discrimination in their demanding of a more just society. This was also true in the 1960’s when students protested the Vietnam War. It is true today as students are standing up across this country to change what is to what should be: inclusive campus environments that do not tolerate hatred, racism, or violence against a group based on the color of their skin, their faith, or the essence of who they are and what they represent.

NADOHE recognizes that student activism and hopefulness can be a tool for transformation.  We believe that together students and college administrators through dialogue, understanding, and leadership can transform the academy to live up to its highest ideals of knowledge transmission, excellence, equality, and a safe environment where all can live, learn and work together.  These are the ideals of an American democracy.

As colleges and universities move forward in the days to come, engaging in dialogue and action on their respective campuses, NADOHE is cognizant that the steps we take as educators will shape the higher education landscape for generations of students. It is imperative that we proceed with thoughtful deliberation and inclusive intent that considers the voice and the needs of our many stakeholders and the students we serve.  There should be a sense of urgency and gravity to our collective efforts as higher education has reached a tipping point and there is no turning back or away from the realities that must be addressed and resolved.

As an organization, NADOHE stands for inclusive excellence and diversity in higher education.  We stand with the students and the activists who are seeking an end to racial discrimination on college campuses in the hopes of creating a more equitable society.  We pledge to work with the higher education community and its leadership to create mechanisms for institutional change and dialogue.  We will continue our work of integrating the human family toward a better world.  This is our pledge and our promise.