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Syracuse University administrators are reviewing programs, resources and services for compliance with the federal government’s changed policies on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility under President Donald Trump, according to a campus-wide email sent Thursday morning.

SU’s Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion, Mary Grace Almandrez, will lead this DEIA assessment, specifically in services offered and language used, and within the university’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Almandrez and her team will deliver a report with recommendations to Chancellor Kent Syverud at the end of this spring semester, according to the email.

“Broadly speaking, the federal administration’s position is that consideration of race in any aspect of student, academic or campus life is discriminatory and, thus, a violation of Title VI,” the email states. “While this broad interpretation is being challenged in the courts, the University does not believe any of our programs discriminate against any group.”

The announcement follows multiple announcements to faculty from the United States Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights, including a “Dear Colleague” letter on Feb. 14 and a list of frequently asked questions on Feb. 28 to clarify changing policies, according to the email.

One immediate change the university is making is shifting oversight of all scholarship programs to its Office of Academic Affairs from across other departments.

The email reaffirmed SU’s February commitment to being “a university that is welcoming to all,” and stated that students, faculty and staff have a role in making all feel included.

The email — addressed to students, faculty and staff — was signed by Syverud, Almandrez, Interim Vice Chancellor and Provost Lois Agnew, Vice Chancellor J. Michael Haynie and Chief Student Experience Officer Allen Groves.

Published on March 6, 2025 at 11:46 am

Contact Duncan: digreen@syr.edu