KEARNEY — The University of Nebraska at Kearney has released the findings of an internal review into allegations involving diversity, equity, and inclusion programming, curriculum changes, classroom content, and claims of political bias on campus.
The review, completed by the university’s Compliance Office and subsequently evaluated by an independent review conducted by the law firm Baird Holm LLP, concluded that the allegations examined were not supported by the evidence gathered during the investigation.
According to the report, university officials reviewed concerns related to alleged DEI programming, faculty conduct, course materials, curriculum decisions, and campus climate. Investigators conducted interviews, reviewed university documents, and examined course content and personnel records.
One allegation centered on claims that UNK continued to promote DEI initiatives. The review found a faculty member had shared a link to outside content discussing issues faced by transgender students, but determined the material did not constitute official university programming, training, or policy. The report also concluded that positions cited as DEI-related were focused on student engagement and retention rather than diversity programming.
The investigation also examined concerns regarding content used in a Human Sexuality course. According to the report, images referenced in complaints were contained within course materials and were relevant to the educational objectives of the class. Investigators found no violation of university policy.
Additional concerns involved changes to Family Science curriculum offerings. Faculty members told investigators that course eliminations and modifications were part of routine academic review processes driven by enrollment trends and program needs. The review found no evidence that the changes were politically motivated.
The report further addressed claims that conservative and Christian students or faculty members faced discrimination or hostility on campus. While investigators acknowledged differing perspectives among those interviewed, the review concluded there was insufficient evidence to support claims of institutional bias against conservative or Christian viewpoints.
Baird Holm LLP reviewed the university’s investigation and reported that the process was thorough and the findings were supported by the evidence examined.
The report ultimately concluded that no university policies were violated and that the allegations reviewed did not demonstrate institutional misconduct by UNK.
