By James Brown, Winter Dube and Ansley DeCenzo, Spectator Staff Writers 

The entire VSU community is being heavily impacted by federal and state directives related to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts at universities nationwide. 

VSU President Richard Carvajal spoke at a recent Faculty Senate meeting regarding how the federal decisions have impacted the university, including many changes to the university’s website. 

The DEI initiative is a national effort and framework for public institutions to provide inclusiveness for those who belong to any group that is unrepresented or oppressed, such as the African American community and the Native American community. 

Since his return to office in January, President Donald Trump has been making extensive attempts to cut DEI programs at the federal level. 

Following these changes to DEI efforts, many universities and public institutions have been faced with the decision to end their programs that support education in fields of diversity, including VSU. 

In a Faculty Senate meeting held on Feb. 20, Dr. Carvajal and a number of attendees discussed the ramifications following the changes regarding the DEI initiative. 

“We will expedite the work initiated last year, to edit or remove content from all VSU websites and other materials that run contrary to our new guidance,” said Carvajal. 

Much of the reaction is related to a Feb. 14 letter from the Office of Civil Rights that imposes a deadline for the removal of all DEI-related initiatives. 

Many looked to Dr. Carvajal to release any information surrounding the controversy that may not have been discussed. 

“We frankly don’t know all of the answers yet, because we don’t have guidance … as we get additional guidance, we’ll share it,” said Dr. Carvajal. 

All departments will receive guidance on deleting or editing their webpages. The letter will be effective by March. 1, in compliance with ceasing all race-conscious programming and spending. 

In the meeting, Dr. Carvajal clarified that the Blazer Creed will not change. He said things will be different, but what the creed says means something to him and VSU’s students. 

The Blazer Creed states that everyone in the VSU community should uphold core principles of civility, integrity and citizenship.  

“Now is our time to live up to that creed and make VSU even greater for all,” said Dr. Carvajal. 

Following the move, many students are beyond disappointed with VSU’s decision to comply due to how it will affect students’ learning and cultural experiences. 

“I just think it’s ridiculous having to get rid of something like that knowing that it helps so many students but also being able to learn about other cultures and being educated on everything,” said 21-year-old VSU student Michelle Tinoco. 

Some students are still in disbelief at the number of programs that may be removed due to the changes. 

“It’s ridiculous, just the fact that all these programs are going to get cut, like the African American studies and the Native American studies. All of it is going to be cut,” said 20-year-old VSU student Cary DeLuke. 

Dr. Carvajal emphasized that the university is not sure which programs and activities will be affected. 

Currently, the webpage for the DEI committee at VSU appears to be unavailable. 

As part of its 2030 Strategic Plan, VSU aims to be an inclusive community where differences are respected and embraced. 

The university plans to evaluate the success of its DEI efforts by spring 2027, demonstrating a long-term commitment to raising an inclusive environment that prepares students for success after college. 

Photos courtesy of VSU.