"So, today, on December 12, 2023, I am specifically calling out the President of Andrews University who has displayed by his behavior, rhetoric, and actions, that he is unresponsive to certain segments of the university constituency, that are unlike him in their appearance, thinking, philosophy and understanding. He has shown, by his actions, exchanges, and decisions, an exclusivity toward the African American community specifically and other constituent groups whose lives and experiences differ from his. This close-minded way of thinking and operating is not in keeping with Christian principles and moral values. It does not comport with the Christian precept of servant leadership that was practiced and modeled by Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. I therefore am calling for an immediate investigation into his recent actions regarding the restructuring and or dismantling of the V.P. for Diversity Position of the Campus of Andrews University, a position that was created to address the past history of inequity that existed in the institution and his fitness to serve as President of Andrews University. No one that exhibits these characteristics, and ignores these important issues of inclusion and diversity, should serve as the president of a university with the second-highest ethnic diversity index of 0.77 in the United States.
This is the first step in a process of investigation that I am calling to be initiated by the Board of Trustees. I will be sending a similar letter to the Chair and Vice Chair of the AU Board and asking for an immediate response to this request. As an alum of Andrews University, twice a graduate and former employee of close to sixteen years, and a present employee of the Seventh-day Adventist Church of over 40 years, I expect my request will be taken very seriously. If it is not I will take further steps with regard to this matter. "
- Timothy P. Nixon
Note: Diversity & Inclusion letters were removed from the office's door; students have noticed and taken action. This poster of #1 in diversity, is located right outside the former Diversity & Inclusion office.