The Provost Mark Kornbluh is considering eliminating two student Success programs (Warrior VIP and APEX Scholars) that has helped Detroiters, especially Black, Latino and underrepresented minorities. Wayne State prides itself for having programs to support Diversity and Inclusion, but much of this is symbolic for publicity. We demand real action to support the student experience.

For example, in 2021, Black Student Union (BSU) demands were not met to the satisfaction of the students by Wayne State administration. As a result, many of us turned to Warrior VIP to create a student experience that represented our voices and needs. Now the University is going after a program created by us without any consultation from students and staff.

We as students are demanding the University consider Warrior VIP as a high-impact, holistic program that actually supports students of color.

Administration keeps making decision on student’s behalf, without the consideration of students. Wayne State University is failing to provide adequate resources to students of color. President Roy Wilson mentions in the 2022-2027 Strategic Plan that there are major discrepancies between the white student graduation rates and Black students. Warrior VIP was recognized nationally for its role in improving Black graduation rates at Wayne State. The school claims they want to fix this issue, but they are continuing to deprive Black students of the resources they need to succeed at this university. Tuition increased by 3%, but we do not see it being invested in the Student Success programs like Warrior VIP or APEX Scholars.

Warrior VIP has the only support program targeted for Juniors and Seniors. Praveen Loganathan created the Junior/Senior experience and helped numerous students from dropping out. Praveen goes the extra-mile to make students feel accepted and heard. Our group is fully committed to Praveen, and we demand his leadership continues effective immediately.