07/02/2025
In June, an undercover reporter posed as a concerned student and filmed WCU staff member Karen Price discussing DEI at WCU. The video was shared across Accuracy in Media’s platforms and spread quickly on news outlets and social media. This was the third published attempt by this organization to oust UNC employees and DEI policies that may still be in effect. Shortly after, WCU shared with students, staff and faculty members that the Office of Intercultural Affairs had closed.
At TWC, our reporting is grounded in truth, transparency and integrity. We are committed to reporting the facts, and we do not use journalism to push a hidden agenda.
Our reporters are transparent in their goals and will never attempt to trap anyone or harm their position at WCU. The individual in question is not affiliated with TWC or any WCU publications. They approached staff under false pretenses, aiming to force a statement that could be used against them. To clarify, Price was not fired due to this incident — she had already vacated her position before the release of the video.
If you are unsure whether someone is a legitimate TWC reporter, please verify by visiting our staff page:
https://www.westerncarolinian.com/meet-our-staff/
Anyone not included in our Meet the Staff page on our website or posted on our social media is not affiliated with us and should not be talked to. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns to [email protected] or 828-227-2694.
Be on the lookout for our first edition this fall where we will include more in-depth coverage of this situation and the impact on students.
We are grateful for your support!
