Race-based programming and spending

Dear Faculty, Staff, and Students, 

In our message on Friday, Feb. 14, we promised to keep our community informed as new federal policies emerge that affect our university.

Late Friday evening, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights issued a Dear Colleague letter [ed.gov, PDF] prohibiting race-based programming and spending at universities. The letter states that institutions not in immediate compliance may face federal investigation and potential loss of funding.

We understand this news is concerning. We share your apprehensions and remain unwavering in our commitment to our values.

For 400 years, the Congregation of the Mission has led a global Vincentian community dedicated to serving those on the margins of society. For more than 125 years, DePaul has carried this legacy forward, embracing our Catholic, Vincentian mission to uphold the dignity of every person and expand access to education for those historically excluded. This commitment is at the heart of who we are as a faith-based institution—and we will continue to uphold it as we navigate these changes.

We are actively assessing how this federal guidance may affect the university and will engage with our shared governance groups to inform decisions. Additionally, we continue to work with state and federal policymakers to advocate for policies that prioritize student needs in higher education.

Please know we remain steadfast in our mission, dedicated to academic freedom, and committed to our institutional priorities. During these challenging times, we ask everyone to consider how we may engage all areas of our university community and support one another. We - and all our university leaders - will continue to keep you informed and deeply appreciate all that you do for our DePaul community.

Sincerely,