Haskell Indian Nations University is rehiring some of the employees that were abruptly fired on Friday, February 14, 2025 back as adjunct instructors.

“Haskell President Dr. Francis (Frank) Arpan confirmed the reinstatement stating that the university has arranged for affected instructors to finish the semester under adjunct contracts,” Haskell’s Student Government Association (SGA) said in a statement.
The instructors are expected to resume teaching this coming week.
The rehiring only applies to instructors. Other employees, including cafeteria workers and custodians were not included in this decision, according to the statement.
“The university acknowledges the difficult circumstances faced by all affected staff and is continuing to explore solutions where possible,” SGA’s statement continued.
Nearly 40 Haskell employees—including instructors, multiple coaches, administrative staff, custodial workers, and others—were abruptly terminated on February 14. Their pay ceased immediately, and their benefits were set to expire within 30 days. The layoffs affected approximately a quarter of Haskell’s 150-member workforce.
Those fired at Haskell were part of the termination of federal probationary employees who were probationary employees—those with less than two years of service.
Haskell, located in Lawrence, Kansas, has been significantly affected by the reinstatement of Schedule F, a Trump-era policy that reclassifies certain federal positions, simplifying the process of employee termination.
Some 34 classes were left without instructors as the result of the abrupt firings.
Getting information from Haskell Indian Nations University administrators is limited to being directed to contact the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) in Washington, D.C. The BIE is operated within the authority of the U.S. Department of the Interior.
“Haskell Indian Nations University remains focused on providing quality education and supporting its students. We do not comment on personnel matters.” Jennifer Bell, BIE spokesperson said to Native News Online in an email.
More Stories Like This
Trump Administration Proposes Deep Cuts to Tribal College Funding, Threatening Their SurvivalUSU Researchers Find Relationship Building, Local Cultural Knowledge Key for Indigenous Learners
Zuni Youth Enrichment Project Brings Traditional Dance and Cultural Learning to 450 Students This Spring
Class of 2025 Leads the Way for Indigenous Graduation Regalia
Longterm United Tribes Technical College President David Gipp Walks On
Can we take a minute to talk about tribal sovereignty?
Our mission draws from the warrior spirit that has sustained Indigenous peoples for generations — the same spirit that drives us to stand guard over tribal rights through relentless investigation and fearless reporting.
Sovereignty isn't just a concept – it's the foundation of Native nations' right to govern, protect our lands, and preserve our cultures. Every story we publish strengthens tribal sovereignty.
Unlike mainstream media, we center Indigenous voices and report directly from Native communities. When we cover land rights, water protection, or tribal governance, we're not just sharing news – we're documenting our living history and defending our future.
Our journalism is powered by readers, not shareholders. If you believe in the importance of Native-led media in protecting tribal sovereignty, consider supporting our work today.