OU students are calling for change and increased transparency from the university after lack of communication following alterations to educational opportunity outreach programs for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Twenty years ago, OU alumna Cinthya Allen drove past the âWelcome to Normanâ sign on Flood Avenue for the first time as a resident. For Allen, the sign symbolizes inclusivity â a trait she believes defines her community.
Normanâs nuanced history with diversity is apparent in its history as a âsundown townâ â which city councilors officially apologized for in 2020. A town that once excluded Black people from its residence now recognizes a Hispanic woman â and native of Chihuahua, Mexico â in a leadership position.Â
In its most recent meeting, the Norman City Council introduced Allen as Normanâs first chief diversity and equity officer â a position established in parallel to the City of Oklahoma City â charging her with molding Norman into the âinclusive city that we say we are,â she said.