The President of the University of Cincinnati, Neville Pinto, in a news release stated that the university will begin rolling back all Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This decision follows an executive order signed by former President Donald Trump on January 21, 2025, which restricts DEI programs in federally funded institutions. Additionally, the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has issued a directive calling for the elimination of DEI in higher education.
The official release states, “As you are no doubt aware, the federal government has effectively outlawed DEI programs and practices within government entities, including public universities nationwide.”
Compliance Deadline and Institutional Response
The university must comply with the new regulations by February 28, after which OCR will begin enforcing accountability for noncompliant institutions. President Neville Pinto and Provost Kristi Nelson have been working with deans and vice presidents to outline initial steps for implementation. They have also met with the Faculty Senate Cabinet to discuss the broader implications of these policy changes.
“With federal funding being crucial to sustaining the university’s core mission, noncompliance is not a viable option. Additionally, Ohio’s 136th General Assembly is fast-tracking Senate Bill 1, which reinforces federal DEI prohibitions,” the release states.
How the University is Responding
University leaders have begun assessing DEI-related roles and responsibilities while reviewing programs, initiatives, and projects to ensure compliance with the new regulations. Additionally, the university has started removing references to DEI principles from its websites, social media, and promotional materials.
Despite these changes, President Pinto reaffirmed the university’s commitment to fostering a supportive learning and working environment where all students feel welcome, safe, and empowered to succeed.
Click here to view the official release.
Students from the Young Democratic Socialists of America (YDSA), the Ohio Student Association (OSA), and the wider student body staged a protest outside the Tangeman University Center on Monday, opposing the rollback of DEI initiatives. Protesters urged the university to stand up for their interests, highlighting the impact these changes will have on students and staff, reports WCPO 9.
