Session Description:
In a time when states are passing anti-DEI legislation, institutions are struggling to find ways to
effectively meet the needs of their diverse student bodies. Without knowing the details, these laws
and regulations can seem very restrictive. However, upon analyzing the texts of these policies, there
are ways to navigate to enact DEI programs and support systems without violating this legislation. In
this presentation, we will provide an overview of the anti-DEI legislation on Oklahoma and share how
our institution continues to navigate these policies, without violating their written restrictions, while
providing innovative support to students, staff, and faculty.
Session Objectives: - Analyze the written statements of anti-DEI legislation, identifying the specific restrictions that are
enacted by these policies
- Develop innovative DEI strategies and supports for students, staff, and faculty that do not violate
the restrictions of this legislation
Themes:
Institutional strategies for advancing DEI and strategies for addressing challenges to advance DEI
Audience:
Higher Education faculty, staff and administrators
Panelists:
Eric Kyle, PhD (he/him), University of Central Oklahoma
Alyssa L. Provencio, Ph.D. (she/her/ella), University of Central Oklahoma
Biographies:
Dr. Kyle’s teaching, scholarship and service are primarily focused at the intersection of the following
areas: 1) Faculty development; 2) Educating for Peace; and, 3) Teaching Religion. Having served as a
professional educator since 2001, his passions continue to focus on educational theories and practices
that transform students and their communities to be more peaceful, just, and inclusive.
Dr. Provencio is an Associate Professor in Political Science, specializing in resilience, leadership, and
community-driven solutions, with a particular teaching and research focus on how under-resourced
populations navigate crises. Through her work at LX Studio, she builds strategic partnerships that
strengthen civic engagement and workforce development. Her work emphasizes equity, sustainability,
and collective action, empowering students and communities to develop social resilience through
policy innovation and collaborative problem-solving.