Why Did Appalachian State University Fire Four LGBTQ+ Faculty Members?

Appalachian State University has fired four leaders of an LGBTQ+ employee group, as reported by former employees interviewed by Inside Higher Ed. Two were told they were being let go due to North Carolina’s at-will employment status.

This dismissal of LGBTQ+ group employees at the university is part of a more significant trend of reduced diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, including fewer pride events. While North Carolina doesn’t have explicit bans on DEI initiatives like some other states, the university’s actions reflect a national trend of institutions scaling back such programs without legal requirements. Examples include Texas Tech University closing its DEI office due to anti-DEI legislation and the University of Oklahoma shutting down its DEI office following a directive from the governor. 

Despite scrutiny of DEI initiatives in North Carolina, Appalachian State University denies any plans to reduce or eliminate DEI programs. Megan Hayes, the university’s spokesperson, emphasized the institution’s commitment to inclusivity and highlighted recent inclusivity initiatives, such as events featuring Deaf individuals and Appalachian folk magic.

Former employees Jax Lastinger and Sarah Hoffert founded the LGBTQ+ affinity group Queer and Trans Staff and Faculty (QTSAF) in 2021, which merged with an existing group. They organized social events and advocacy work, but several leaders, including Lastinger, were terminated over time. Lastinger, who also served as the director of DEI educational development, was directed by a supervisor to remove specific terms like “unconscious bias” from their DEI training sessions, prompting concerns about the university’s commitment to DEI.

The terminations have raised allegations of discrimination, with one former employee filing a complaint alleging bias based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Despite denials from the university, concerns persist about LGBTQ+ representation and visibility on campus.

These incidents occurred amidst broader campus issues, including student protests over poor learning conditions due to construction at Wey Hall, an art building. The protests highlight the need for institutional accountability and inclusivity beyond DEI initiatives.

The terminations of LGBTQ+ group leaders at Appalachian State University, coupled with reduced DEI efforts, reflect broader challenges on campus. The protests over poor learning conditions underscore the need for the university to address these issues and ensure inclusivity and accountability across all aspects of campus life.