As of March 3, users who visit certain ETSU sites are halted with a message stating “This site is currently under construction.” With recent DEI bans from the Trump administration, these changes have signaled concern among students, faculty and staff regarding the future of these programs.
According to a release, ETSU is undergoing a review of its programs and communications to ensure full compliance with recent federal directives aimed at maintaining equal access to university services for all individuals, regardless of race or personal identity.
In a statement, ETSU President Brian Noland reaffirmed the university’s ongoing commitment to a fair, welcoming and respectful environment for everyone at the institution.
The review follows guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Education in the form of “Dear Colleague Letters” (DCL). These letters provide legal interpretation of regulations and direct universities across the country to discontinue any services exclusively offered to one race or identity group.
Since ETSU is a public university, it is governed by all rules and regulations established by the federal and state governments.
According to the first DCL issued on Feb. 14, institutions that fail to comply with new regulations may be subject to an investigation and could lose federal funding.
“All students are entitled to a school environment free from discrimination,” the letter read. “The Department is committed to ensuring those principles are a reality.”
A second DCL released on Feb. 28 included further compliance information, stepping back on some of its original claims and giving possible solutions based on varying scenarios across institutions.
While ETSU has publicly maintained open access to its programs and resources, the university said it is taking additional steps to clarify that all offerings are available to any student, faculty or staff member.
“We recognize that some terminology may have been construed as exclusive by members of our campus community,” Noland stated. “To ensure full compliance with recent federal directives, the Office of University Counsel is reviewing university communications, including web pages.”
As part of this effort, new landing pages have been created for the Mary V. Jordan Multicultural Center, the Dr. Patricia Robertson Pride Center and the Women and Gender Resource Center, with event details available on the university’s calendar.
“As a public university, ETSU must comply with state and federal regulations,” Noland stated. “While processes and language may evolve, our values remain unchanged. We will continue to cultivate a campus where all individuals feel valued, supported and empowered to succeed.”
While the review process is ongoing, the university said it will update content as necessary to remain compliant with federal and state regulations.
