Another video exposes Iowa State University’s lack of DEI compliance

An Iowa State University employee has been caught in an undercover video admitting to seeking loopholes in the laws concerning diversity, equity, and inclusion. Susan Harper, who previously directed the Center for LGBTQIA+ Student Success at ISU, was recorded saying, “We’re just gonna do what we’re gonna do,” alluding to circumventing regulations.

The video was released by “Accuracy in Media” without Harper’s awareness and played eerie music and captions to sensationalize the footage, focusing on strategies to bypass prohibitions on DEI-related expenditures and activities. Harper mentioned, “We are finding ways to be in compliance with the law and still do the work that needs to be done,” sowing skepticism on adherence to anti-DEI regulations.

Iowa State University’s spokeswoman, Angie Hunt, declared a commitment to following state and federal laws and noted that the video is undated but likely filmed around a year ago. She highlighted that all programming at the Center for LGBTQIA+ Student Success was discontinued in response to the Board of Regents’ directive to discontinue activities related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The position of director, formerly held by Harper, was eliminated in December 2024 as part of the steps to comply with recent laws and guidelines. However, the university did not confirm Harper’s current employment status or responsibilities, leaving speculation on her ongoing association with ISU.

The scandal at Iowa State University follows similar incidents at the University of Iowa involving staff members placed on leave after undercover videos exposed DEI-adjacent activities. Drea Tinoco and Cory Lockwood were featured in videos discussing methods to sidestep DEI regulations and stay engaged in diversity-related services despite official directives. Both employees were suspended from their roles amid state investigations led by Gov. Kim Reynolds and Attorney General Brenna Bird.

The inconsistent compliance with anti-DEI laws raises questions about institutional dedication to respecting legislation, potentially jeopardizing the universities’ reputations and integrity. The exposure of employees strategizing to continue DEI work despite official mandates underscores the contentious landscape surrounding equity and inclusion initiatives on university campuses. The public scrutiny and widespread discussions spurred by these covert videos are prompting closer scrutiny of Iowa’s higher education institutions and their DEI practices.