Update: U.S. Department of Education guidance regarding discrimination in higher education - Feb. 19, 2025

EMU employees,

As you likely know, the new Presidential administration has issued a series of Executive Orders, directives, and other communications directing universities across the country to undertake a variety of reviews and actions. The process has been complex and created confusion about required actions at universities throughout the United States.

Most recently, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) issued a “Dear Colleague” letter (the “Letter”) that contains wide-ranging guidance intended to end the use of race, color, or ethnic origin in programs, scholarships, and hiring at the nation’s universities. Universities are directed to comply with the Letter within 14 days or risk losing federal funding.

Employees may understandably have questions about how the Letter might impact specific programs in their offices, or EMU in general. There is much uncertainty because the Letter leaves many unanswered questions and advises that there will be further guidance in coming months.

In the meantime:

  • Lauren London, Leigh Greden, and Dwight Hamilton are coordinating the University’s review of the Letter and its possible impact on our campus. You may hear from them in the coming days with requests for information and assistance.

  • If you have questions about how this Letter may impact a specific program in your area, please email Lauren ([email protected]), Leigh ([email protected]), and Dwight ([email protected]). They will review your questions and respond as soon as possible. Employees should CC their supervisor on emails to Lauren, Leigh, and Dwight.

  • Please do not immediately change websites or programs in your area in response to the Letter. The University’s goal is to carefully examine all programs and implement a coordinated response that complies with the law.

We understand that this is a chaotic time. Please know that we are here to support employees and students and provide information and resources to assist you in navigating these changes. To that end, we intend to provide periodic email updates as well as updates to this website.

We value Eastern Michigan University’s vibrant and student-centered campus environment. We remain committed to creating a community that supports students and employees, and welcomes people from differing backgrounds and perspectives. We will not waver in our commitment that “All Are Welcome Here.”

James Smith, Ph.D.
President

Rhonda Longworth, Ph.D.
Provost, Executive Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs