TCC Suspends Student Over Racist Posts

Tuesday, Tulsa Community College suspended a student it says was identified with a social media group that posted racist messages.

In a statement from TCC President and CEO Leigh B. Goodson, the action falls under TCC’s Student Code of Conduct Policy prohibiting behavior that could be seen as threatening or bullying.

The suspension allows TCC to investigate and decide what the next action is.

The statement says TCC is dedicated to the free exchange of ideas and safety and respect of all students and staff and, “The intimidation of any individual or group is a deterrent to the free and open exchange of ideas.”

A spokesperson for TCC wouldn't say how the information came to their attention. The spokesperson also wouldn't say if the student was from the Tulsa area.

The full statement reads:

“Today, Tulsa Community College put on interim academic suspension a TCC student who has been identified with a social media group that posted racist messages identified by federal authorities to be potential criminal activity.  This action falls under TCC’s Student Code of Conduct Policy which prohibits behavior that threatens the mental health or safety of students or could be perceived as threatening or bullying.  The interim suspension allows TCC to investigate the matter, decide on our next actions, and protect our learning environment for students and our employees.

“This disturbing behavior gives me the opportunity to make our mission clear – TCC is dedicated to learning, the free exchange of ideas, and the safety and respect of all of our students and employees.  The intimidation of any individual or group is a deterrent to the free and open exchange of ideas.  As an open door institution with more than 27,000 students, we understand that every individual who comes through our doors has a belief system and a history different from every other.  This diversity is what makes higher education a rich and meaningful experience.  As President, I am deeply disappointed this behavior occurred and I have taken this action to reflect our values and our commitment to students.”