A group of students from multiple universities interrupted a Board of Regents meeting Wednesday, Oct. 12 to protest a proposal to appoint Sam Olens the next president of KSU.
The demonstration, made up of students from Kennesaw State, Georgia State University and Columbus State University, was the latest in a two-week string of protests and petitions opposing Olens’ appointment. The students picketed outside the building that houses the headquarters for the University System of Georgia before moving into the meeting. Once the meeting started, the group stood up together to demand a nationwide search.
“We must love each other and protect each other!” they shouted. “We have nothing to lose but our chains!”
The meeting adjourned for a five-minute recess while the students were still speaking. The students themselves exited shortly thereafter, still chanting.
Faculty members reported that when the students tried to re-enter the building, they found that their identification badges had been blocked, barring them access. The meeting continued into a second session in their absence.
Students, staff and faculty have raised concerns over the Board’s exclusive consideration of Olens as a candidate and the lack of input from the KSU community, as well as Olens’ lack of academic experience and positions he has taken on issues affecting LGBT individuals.
“We believe that all constituencies should be allowed to vet and get to know prospective candidates in order to understand their positions on issues important to the university and its development,” said President of the Faculty Senate, Humuyun Zafar, in a statement to the Board.
Later in the meeting, the Board voted unanimously to name Olens president, a decision that prompted the remaining faculty members to walk out of the meeting.
Olens promised in a letter he wrote to the campus community to begin a dialogue with students, stating he believes strongly in respect, open communication and tolerance.
“The grit and determination that Kennesaw State students are known for and the inclusive campus community are consistent with who I am and the values that I hold,” he said.
Board of Regents Chancellor Hank Huckaby denied accusations that Olens’ political background would interfere with his ability to serve the needs of students.
“Sam is a person whose record shows that he is very open, very honest, and unbiased, so I think given time he will develop the kinds of relationships that all will come to know that this is a very fine appointment,” Huckaby said. “There’s no question; he has a lot of work, he understands that, but I think he has a good handle on the kinds of things he’s going to need to do.”
Students of the Say No to Sam Olens Facebook page, the group that organized the protest, have advocated for further protests at the Board of Regents and at upcoming new student orientations. Some even said they are considering transferring to other institutions.
“We have the emotional charge, we have the synergy, we have a huge student body. Keep protesting,” said Amanda Harrell, a sophomore sociology major who was present at the protest. “We have been regent’ed,”
