Ohio State University Shuts Down Diversity and Inclusion Offices Amid Federal Review

The Ohio State University has announced the closure of its Office of Diversity and Inclusion and Center for Belonging and Social Change, a decision that took effect on Friday. This action affects 16 professional staff positions at the university.

Despite the closure, OSU has assured that no staff members will lose their jobs for at least 60 days. During this interim period, the university plans to assist impacted employees in finding internal positions, as reported by local news sources.

Presidential Announcement and Federal Compliance

OSU President Ted Carter made the announcement regarding the office closures on Thursday. Carter cited federal regulations mandating universities to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion measures as the primary reason behind this decision.

In a message on the university’s website, Carter stated, “The federal government has signaled its intent to enforce guidance invalidating the use of race in a broad range of educational activities, including by withdrawing federal dollars that are paramount to our student, academic, and operational success.”

Legislative Context in Ohio

In addition to federal actions, a legislative bill prohibiting DEI practices is progressing through the Ohio state legislature. Attorney General of Ohio has advised that his office agrees with the federal government’s stance concerning race in educational programs.

This local political environment contributes to the changing landscape for DEI initiatives not only at OSU but also across educational institutions in the state.

Changes to Scholarships and Programs

The restructuring also extends to scholarships administered by the Office of Academic Affairs, which will modify their eligibility criteria. Programming and services from Student Life’s Center for Belonging and Social Change faced immediate termination.

Carter added, “We will sunset the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) along with some of its services, effective February 28, 2025. Scholarships offered by the Office of Academic Affairs, such as the Morrill Scholarship Program and the Young Scholars Program, will continue but with revised eligibility criteria moving forward.”

Ongoing Reviews of DEI Entities

The review of associated DEI entities at OSU will also continue. This includes assessing the university’s Hale Black Cultural Center and the Kirwan Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnicity. The ongoing evaluations reflect the president’s broader review of the university’s commitment to DEI initiatives.

National Trends in DEI Policies

The announcement follows a memo issued by the Trump administration on February 14, which provides guidance for colleges and universities to terminate DEI-related mandates and programs. The memo outlined that non-compliance could result in the loss of federal funding.

In January, Trump signed an executive order aimed at terminating what he referred to as DEI discrimination within the federal workforce and federal contracting. It directed all relevant departments and agencies to cease private sector DEI discrimination, impacting civil compliance investigations.

Similar Actions Across Other Universities

Other universities have also begun to dismantle their DEI initiatives in light of the federal government’s new approach. For instance, the University of Michigan has stopped soliciting diversity statements during faculty hiring, promotion, and tenure evaluations. Similarly, Northeastern University, Missouri State University, and West Virginia University have made similar moves to curtail DEI efforts.

The Justification for DEI

Proponents of DEI measures argue that these initiatives are essential for addressing historical injustices and systemic inequities within educational systems. They contend that efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion contribute to a more just and equitable society.

The ongoing changes at Ohio State University represent a significant shift in the landscape for diversity and inclusion efforts in higher education. As institutional policies adapt to federal guidelines, the future of DEI initiatives remains uncertain.

A Shifting Educational Landscape

The closure of the diversity offices reflects broader trends in higher education where institutions must navigate federal regulations while striving to address social justice issues. The debate surrounding DEI will undoubtedly continue as universities seek pathways to maintain inclusivity amid changing political climates. As this situation unfolds, the implications for faculty, students, and the larger community will become increasingly important for stakeholders engaged in the fight for equity.