Welcome to this week’s Monday Musings! Higher education is grappling with shifting policies and legal challenges, from Title IX enforcement changes to general education reforms and DEI advocacy. Let’s explore the major developments shaping colleges and universities this week.

1. Title IX: It’s 2020 All Over Again

The U.S. Department of Education confirmed on January 31 that it will enforce Title IX regulations introduced at the end of President Trump’s first term. This means a rollback of rules that allowed trans students to use facilities matching their gender identity and the reinstatement of live hearings and cross-examinations in sexual misconduct cases.

This move has sparked renewed debates about campus safety, due process, and discrimination protections. Supporters argue structured hearings protect the accused, while critics worry it could discourage survivors from reporting cases.

Key Takeaway: Colleges will need to reassess their Title IX policies to comply with the reinstated regulations.

2. Florida Board Approves Extensive General Education Overhaul

The Florida Board of Governors has made sweeping changes to the state’s general education curriculum, eliminating courses perceived as promoting "woke ideologies." Hundreds of courses—including those focusing on race, gender, and identity—have been removed from core requirements and shifted to elective status.

Faculty members and free speech advocates warn that this decision could undermine academic freedom and diversity in education. Supporters argue it ensures that taxpayer funds are being used responsibly and that courses align with state statutes.

Quick Insight: The debate over what should be required in general education continues to divide policymakers, educators, and students.

3. Colleges Prepare to Protect Dreamers, Undocumented Students Amid Threats

As President Donald Trump renews his pledge to deport millions of undocumented immigrants, colleges are ramping up support for DACA recipients and undocumented students. Institutions are expanding legal assistance, mental health services, and know-your-rights programs to ease student concerns.

In states like California, new policies aim to protect undocumented students, but uncertainty continues to loom.

Key Action: Colleges should continue providing resources, legal support, and mental health services for undocumented students.

4. College Leaders Galvanize to Fight the Anti-DEI ‘Chaos’

With legislative efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs on the rise, a grassroots coalition of college leaders is mobilizing to protect and preserve DEI initiatives.

Advocates argue that DEI programs play a critical role in fostering inclusive campus environments and addressing systemic inequities. Critics of these legislative efforts say they could restrict institutional autonomy and impact student diversity initiatives.

Quick Insight: Expect continued legal and political battles over the future of DEI policies in higher education.

5. Choosing a College: 10 Most Important Reasons for Students

A new survey by EAB sheds light on what students prioritize when selecting a college. While academic programs and campus safety remain top concerns, many students also value streamlined application processes and strong student support services.

Interestingly, while cost is an important consideration, it is not the primary factor for many students making enrollment decisions. These insights can help enrollment teams tailor messaging to better connect with prospective students and highlight what truly matters in their college search.

Key Takeaway: Institutions that emphasize academic strength, student safety, and simplified admissions can improve their recruitment and engagement strategies.

Published: February 10, 2025