K-State Shutters Spectrum Center

Notice of closure poseted next to a whiteboard on the door of the Spectrum Center welcoming students

Image Credit: KSNT 27 News

The latest decision in a long line capitulating to conservative politics, Kansas State University has announced the closing of the Spectrum Center. Founded in 2010 as the LGBT Resource Center, the Spectrum Center has served as a resource for LGBTQ+ students, sponsoring events, providing education and building community.

While K-State and its Student Governing Association have consistently underfunded LGBTQ+ resources on campus, the decision to gut the Spectrum Center came seemingly out of the blue in a digital letter on July 23 from Thomas Lane, the vice president for academic success and student affairs. Dr. Lane writes with “thoughtful consideration and deep respect for the community,” an incredibly hollow sentiment given the institution’s track record of avoiding or silencing progressive politics and critically underfunding important student resources while skyrocketing tuition rates over the last two decades.

This is an update in our continuing coverage of Kansas State University’s rollback on DEIB programs. Stay tuned to the Weekly Rose for further updates on Kansas universities.

Edited by Jack Shaw

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