Reaffirming OHIO’s commitment to nondiscrimination: An update on federal guidance

The following message was shared with members of the University community on Feb. 18, 2025.
 

Central to the Ohio University mission is our commitment to hold the door open to higher education for all those eager to learn. Ensuring our University is both academically excellent and accessible to all who seek an OHIO degree is one of our core values, as is expecting respect across varied perspectives and backgrounds.

With our mission and values in mind, OHIO is deeply committed to nondiscrimination on our campuses, including full compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin, and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex.

Late on Friday, February 14, the United States Department of Education Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued a “Dear Colleague” letter, to all preschool, elementary, secondary and postsecondary educational institutions that receive federal financial assistance from the Department, outlining new guidance around compliance with Title VI. Specifically, it states that the 2023 Supreme Court Decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard applies broadly and, therefore, that “federal law prohibits covered entities from using race in decisions pertaining to admissions, hiring, promotion, compensation, financial aid, scholarships, prizes, administrative support, discipline, housing, graduation ceremonies, and all other aspects of student, academic and campus life.”

This letter serves as an important reminder: Ohio University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or other legally protected status. Those involved in admission, scholarships, financial aid or conferral of other University benefits, programs or services, as well as those making hiring decisions, may not consider race, color or national origin as a factor.

Since the 2023 Supreme Court decision, Ohio University has been working to remain compliant with revised interpretations of the law, including ensuring race was not a factor in admissions or scholarship consideration, even as one of many factors, and that all services and programs were open to all students. To further ensure compliance, we are reviewing select University policies and published language around awards and services and will continue to make adjustments as needed.

OHIO strives to be a University community where all belong, which requires that we provide equal access to resources and opportunities while also celebrating the unique perspectives and backgrounds that individual members bring to the larger whole. As we continue to respond to the evolving federal and state legal landscape, it is essential that we remain focused on our mission and values and committed to fostering a welcoming community where all students can thrive.