Colleges Respond To The 2/14/25 Dear Colleague Letter

The 2/14/25 Dear Colleague Letter, issued by the U.S. Department of Education, reinforced federal restrictions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs by barring the use of race in decision-making. In response, universities nationwide are assessing their policies and determining how to comply—or resist—without jeopardizing funding.

Key Question: How will institutions balance compliance with commitments to diversity and student support?

A Surge Of DEI Cuts Hits Colleges Across The U.S.

Facing mounting legal and political pressure, several universities, including Ohio State, are dismantling DEI programs. Ohio State is shutting down its Office of Diversity and Inclusion and ending services at its Center for Belonging and Social Change. The move follows executive orders from the Trump administration and state-level restrictions that limit DEI initiatives.

Key Insight: The threat of losing funding is driving universities to make immediate cuts, but resistance remains in some states.

As Trump’s Deadline To Eliminate DEI Nears, Some Schools Hold Their Ground

Despite the federal push to eliminate DEI programs, some institutions are refusing to make changes. Officials in Washington and California have advised colleges that the Dear Colleague Letter does not override existing state protections. Schools like Antioch University and Western Michigan University are standing firm, arguing their DEI policies remain legally sound.

Quick Insight: While some universities comply, others are waiting for legal clarity before making decisions.

Judge Temporarily Blocks Trump’s Anti-DEI Orders

A federal judge has issued an injunction against Trump administration orders seeking to eliminate DEI programs, ruling that the policies may be unconstitutionally vague and could infringe on free speech rights. As a result, the administration is temporarily blocked from enforcing these orders, pending further court rulings.

Key Takeaway: This legal pause offers institutions temporary relief—but the broader battle over DEI is far from over.

5 Ways Colleges Are Strengthening Tutoring Programs

As institutions seek to improve student success, tutoring programs are evolving. One model gaining traction is course-embedded tutors (CETs), where trained tutors work directly within courses, offering targeted academic support. Moorpark College has successfully implemented this approach, boosting student engagement and performance.

Key Action: Course-embedded tutoring can help students succeed by integrating support directly into their learning experience.

Education Department Lifts Freeze On Some Civil Rights Probes—But Not All

The U.S. Department of Education has resumed civil rights investigations—but only those related to disability discrimination. Complaints involving race and gender discrimination remain frozen, leaving many cases unresolved. This selective approach has sparked concerns about the department’s commitment to addressing all forms of discrimination in education.

Key Question: Will public pressure force the department to lift the freeze on race and gender-related investigations?