ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The University of Michigan has decided to make some significant changes to its diversity, equity and inclusion programs.
Those changes involve closing the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the Office for Health Equity and Inclusion. Additionally, the university’s DEI 2.0 Strategic Plan -- which started in 2023 and was expected to run through 2028 -- will be discontinued.
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The university said it plans to shift funding to other programs, such as financial aid and mental health resources.
The changes are effective March 27, 2025.
According to the university’s website, the DEI 2.0 Strategic Plan was developed through campus conversations, town halls with faculty, students and staff and other community engagement events.
In a statement, U-M said the decision to proceed with ending these programs and offices was made after “intense discussion and reflection involving multiple stakeholders.”
Dr. Laurie Kay McCauley, the provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, convened a special committee last year to review the structural aspects of U-M’s DEI efforts. The committee, which included deans, faculty, and staff, was co-sponsored by the vice president for government relations and chief diversity officer.
University leaders, after discussions with executives and the Board of Regents, presented a strategic plan during the early phase of President Donald Trump’s administration. This period saw the introduction of executive orders and federal guidance, which criticized DEI programs and reshaped higher education.
National associations and policy advisers were engaged to navigate the implications of these directives.
U-M’s Office of the General Counsel will review to ensure all policies, programs and practices comply with federal law and guidance.
In addition to shifting resources to financial aid and mental health programs, the school said it will expand the Blavin Scholars Program and maintain student spaces. It will also explore new ways to “enhance student success,” including AI tutors and AI assistants.
The university said cultural and ethnic events will continue to be supported because they “enrich our campus and foster a vibrant, inclusive environment.”
