evaluations, student admissions, or degree conferrals. No individual shall be required to affirm or reject specific political, social, or cultural positions as a condition of participation in KSU programs or employment.
DEFINITIONS:
Designated Representative
An individual authorized by the President to communicate KSU's official positions or speak on behalf of the institution in specific circumstances.
Institutional Neutrality
KSU's commitment to refrain from adopting official positions on disputed political, social, or cultural issues that do not directly impact KSU operations, academic missions, or legal compliance obligations.
Official KSU Position
Any formal declaration, resolution, or public communication issued under KSU's authority that purports to represent the institution's stance on matters of public concern.
PROCESS:
Authority for Official KSU Positions
Only the President possesses the authority to establish and communicate official KSU positions. The President may delegate this authority, in writing, to specific individuals for defined purposes and circumstances. All official communications must align with institutional neutrality principles and focus solely on matters directly related to KSU's educational mission, operational needs, or legal obligations.
Board of Regents Communications
Pursuant to The Gold Book: Bylaws of the Kentucky State University Board of Regents, the Board Chair holds the exclusive authority to issue statements representing the Board of Regents' official position on a particular matter. Board communications must adhere to institutional neutrality standards and address only those matters within the Board's governance responsibilities.
Individual Expression Guidelines
Personal Capacity Communications
Faculty, staff, and students may express personal viewpoints on any topic when clearly identifying themselves as speaking in their individual capacities rather than on behalf of KSU.
Academic Freedom Protection
Nothing in this policy restricts scholarly inquiry, classroom discussion, research activities, or academic debate within appropriate educational contexts.
Civic Participation
KSU community members may participate in political activities, advocacy organizations, and public service consistent with applicable ethics policies and legal requirements.