This page answers common questions regarding SB 17 and its implications. Please note that specific questions not addressed here can be submitted to the Office of the President for further assistance via email president@angelo.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions
ASU faculty have the academic freedom to include information in their teaching related to diversity, equity, and inclusion as long as the topics are relevant to the course’s learning objectives.
Since SB 17 was passed, the range of available support resources has remained comparable. The same level of support is available to all students, and students are encouraged to seek out these resources as needed by connecting with:
Yes, registered student organizations can fundraise, participate in the Student Organizational Leadership Fund (SOLF) process for registered student organizations, and, as needed, apply for institutional funds as necessary to support activities related to race, color, ethnicity, gender identity, and/or sexual orientation. There should be published procedures for applying and reviewing applications, and all recognized student organizations are eligible to apply. However, funded organizations should not have exclusive membership policies. Events should be open to all students.
Yes, students can fundraise, apply for SOLF funds, and, as necessary, apply for institutional funds to attend external conferences or professional development activities related to DEI. Procedures for applying and reviewing applications should be in place.
Generally, ASU and its units cannot retain offices, initiatives, events, or activities related to race, color, ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation except for activities required by currently funded external federal grants or as required by State or Federal law.
ASU units can support first-generation college students, low-income students, and underserved student populations. In no way does support of these student populations contradict state and federal anti-discrimination laws.
ASU units can host certain types of programming, such as guest speakers/performers and events sponsored by registered student organizations, related to DEI if the program or activity is open to all members of the campus community. ASU units cannot retain in-house programming/activities, such as an office or standing program specific to DEI or that focuses on one particular race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation.
ASU employees can assist with logistics, preparations, and promotion of permissible DEI-related events, such as guest speakers or events conducted by student organizations.
Yes, ASU units may develop and offer resources, programs, and initiatives unrelated to race, color, ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation, focusing on other areas such as economic disadvantage or first-generation college students.
Registered Student Organizations are required to have at least one faculty or staff advisor. In a voluntary capacity, employees may elect to serve as advisors of a registered student organization.
ASU units can recognize federally designated heritage months, giving equal recognition to all months and using recommended language. They can direct readers to activities conducted by recognized student organizations during these months.
While ASU units cannot offer specific diversity, equity, and inclusion-related programming, ASU can offer support and resources that promote a broadly inclusive environment for all students. Programs such as mentoring, academic support, mental health resources, and initiatives can and will be available to support students.
ASU units can circulate information about external scholarship opportunities that may be of interest to underserved applicants or promote diversity.
