By Itzel Chavero
Dominican leaders are guaranteeing students that they will stand firmly through their commitment in supporting diversity initiatives amidst increasing threats against diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts (DEI) from the Trump administration.
Last month, the Department of Education sent a “Dear Colleague” letter to colleges and universities across the country. The letter demanded schools to revisit any policies and programs that operate based on race in admissions, financial aid, promotion, and administrative support.
The letter also indicated that noncomplying institutions could risk losing federal funding, which leaves Dominican at risk of being cut from federal grants and lose diversity resources.
Precious Porras, vice president of justice, equity, and inclusion, said, Dominican does not plan on cutting any DEI programs as the letter is just guidance, but not law.
President Glena Temple affirmed the school’s commitment to its core mission and values in a message sent to students, faculty, and staff.
“We will uphold our core mission and values to the fullest extent possible while complying with federal and state laws,” Temple said. “Together, we will continue to advocate for the shared values of justice, peace, and the dignity of every human being.”
Porras says this executive order may have an impact on the federal grants Dominican received as well as some lost resources, possibly the Peer Led Learning Team, which is an effort to allow students in STEM courses to improve student achievement and encourage student leaders by tutoring.
The full implications of how these directives will affect Dominican students regarding financial help are yet to be determined.
Porras also says Dominican is not considering reducing its approach to student support services with DEI.
“My office and the Center for Cultural Liberation will keep rolling our programs and support for students,” she says.
In terms of recruitment and admissions policies affected by incoming DEI policies, Porras reminds students that Dominican does not have race-based hiring or admissions practices.
Genaro Balcazar, senior vice president of enrollment and marketing strategy, said that the main purpose of this letter seems to be to increase concerns and uncertainty amongst campus communities.
“These executive orders are intended to create uncertainty. So, uncertainty means that we don’t have clear facts,” he explained. “When you don’t have clear facts, it’s a challenge to make decisions about how you’re going to respond.”
Freshman Alianna Perez states that the presence of DEI on schools is essential to her and her ideal school environment.
“As a Mexican American, programs that support and encourage diversity and inclusion will always be important to me”, she said. “As a woman of color, it is important to see people of different races and backgrounds around campus since it makes me feel identified.”
Sophomore Felix Arroyo said that his main worry with Trump’s policies rolling in is the possible cut of federal funding to the school.
“The loss of some of this money could leave students in an unfortunate position economically,” he said. “Many minority students rely on scholarships or grants. It would be disappointing to see that help go away because of the new administration.”
For more information and updates on recent news or policies that may impact Dominican, please visit SSE Student Resources.
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