Ohio University Pauses Black Alumni Reunion Amid DEI Policy Changes
Ohio University is the next institution falling victim to the recent DEI mandates.
The university has placed its Black Alumni Reunion on hold just days after President Lori Gonzalez publicly supported student protests against legislation targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
In defense of the decision, OU referenced the “Dear Colleague” letter from the U.S. Department of Education— which warns that institutions with DEI programs could risk losing federal funding if they don’t adhere. Additionally, pending state legislation in Ohio has prompted the university to review events and programming that could be impacted.
RELATED: Ohio State to Close DEI Offices Following Trump Policy Changes
The Black Alumni Reunion is the university’s second-largest alumni gathering, only behind the main campus Homecoming. The event, which dates back to the 80s, historically draws thousands of attendees and OU alumni. It was last held in September 2022, but organizers planned to move the 2025 reunion to an spring weekend.
RELATED: Trump Administration: End DEI in Schools or Face Federal Funding Cuts
Despite the event’s clear focus on Black alumni, the university and co-chairs stated that it has always been open to all attendees. Moving forward, the Black Alumni Reunion Planning Committee will meet over the next few months to determine next steps. The reunion was originally scheduled for April 10-13.
Black Alumni Reunion committee co-chairs Terry Frazier and Jillian Causey: “While this is difficult news to share, we remain committed to honoring the legacy and accomplishments of Ohio University’s Black alumni… We will continue working with the university to develop a plan that aligns with evolving federal and state guidelines while preserving the significance of this gathering.”
Ohio University Pauses Black Alumni Reunion Amid DEI Policy Changes was originally published on ronemycolumbuspower.staging.go.ione.nyc
