News & Insights

NADOHE hosted a successful Restorative Communities of Practice (RCoP) convening on Friday, November 15, 2024. This national hybrid event brought senior diversity leaders in higher education together to reflect on and develop plans for responding strategically to the challenges to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Read more.

Addressing the student debt crisis is essential to building a more equitable higher education system that promotes social mobility and long-term success. By offering debt relief, we can offer all students — regardless of their background — a fair entry point into economic launch after higher education. Read more.

To declare that diversity programs “went wrong” is not only inaccurate, but it fundamentally misunderstands what the work entails and what its goals are.

As the Association continues to grow and expand its community and influence as a leader in inclusive excellence in higher education and beyond, the NADOHE Board has approved creation of a new Corporate Membership option. Read more.

More than 400 student leaders at 40 host institutions across the country engaged in dialogues on the future of belonging, diversity, and equity in higher education and strategies for fulfilling the promise of an inclusive democracy. Read more.

We would like to take this opportunity to remind and support our membership to engage their campus communities in the important work of civil discourse, respectful dialogue and civic engagement among leadership, faculty, staff and most importantly among our students.

It was recently announced that the University of Kentucky and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln will disband their diversity, equity, and inclusion offices. While statements from the institutions articulate a continuing commitment to academic freedom, inclusion, and a desire for all to feel welcome, it is disheartening and disappointing that the path chosen resulted in the elimination of the offices that lead, influence, and support the stated commitments of the institutions. Read more.

As the U.S. commemorates the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act this July 2, the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education proudly honors this pivotal legislation and its profound impact on higher education. Read more.

NADOHE joined the American Council on Education and nearly two dozen associations in opposing efforts to include the Bipartisan Workforce Pell Act and the DETERRENT Act as amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act. Read more.

NADOHE has joined a coalition of organizations in delivering a letter to Florida college and university presidents expressing concern over unnecessary use of force against protesters, infringing on free speech rights. Read more.

NADOHE welcomes the measures finalized this morning to strengthen and clarify Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education is heartened that so many faculty and student groups are speaking out in support of diversity, equity, and inclusion in advance of the nationwide Day of Action for Higher Education on April 17. Read more.

A record 1,150 people attended the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) 2024 Annual Conference, held in Seattle, Washington March 13-16, including 500 first-time attendees. Read more.

What we heard in the hearing was a continuation of the steady stream of gross misrepresentations of our work to pursue a political agenda. Read more.

The loss of jobs and the dismantling of programs is evidence of the real effect legislative attacks are having on years of effort to advance diversity and inclusion in higher education. They come at the expense of students, who will suffer without programs and people to support their educational journey. Read more.

NADOHE has joined a nonpartisan coalition of 20 groups urging the Florida legislature to vote no on SB 1372 and HB 1291 because of serious concerns that these bills are not constitutionally viable, are overly vague, and are examples of viewpoint discrimination that are contrary to free speech and expression. Read more.

NADOHE has signed an open letter urging the IRS to amend Form 990 to require the disclosure of nonprofit board composition and invites its partners and allies to join the campaign. As public scrutiny of college and university presidents intensifies, it is vital that they have strong support from their governing boards. Read more.

As we honor Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, I find myself considering his grand question: “Where do we go from here, chaos or community?” Read full message.

Using an executive order to return to an era when higher education failed to address the needs of all students is shortsighted and outrageous. With these political actions, elected leaders, including Governor Stitt, are making a calculated attempt at the state level to discredit and diminish effective, proven mechanisms that have opened doors of opportunity and helped historically marginalized students earn their degrees. Read more.

The Association has been invited onto campuses, to conferences, and to partner organization convenings to advocate for NADOHE members, build important partnerships, and offer guidance for both the private and public sectors on how we continue striving for inclusive excellence in the current environment. Read more.

NADOHE has created a new web page to share useful information and resources to help diversity officers and practitioners navigate the many legislative attacks spreading across the U.S. These calculated efforts to dismantle equity, diversity, and inclusion work mean we must help each other understand the changing laws and share ideas on how to advance inclusive excellence in spite of emerging barriers. View the resources page.

NADOHE was proud to partner with NASPA — Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education — on a new report that shares insights about what students and senior administrators identify as drivers of campus racial climate and key factors for advancing change. NASPA’s 18-month research project included focus groups with students, a survey of vice presidents of student affairs and senior diversity officers and a survey of undergraduate students. Read more.

The October return of mandatory payments on federal student loans will squeeze household budgets for millions of Americans. While public discourse often centers on implications for the national economy, the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education warns this moment could prove catastrophic for ongoing efforts in educational equity and access. Read more.

In a first-of-its-kind, NADOHE has released its expansive State of the CDO Report. We collected data to inform a clear picture of the demographics, institutional role, and socio-emotional state of Chief Diversity Officers across the country in 2023. Read more.

This guide is intended to be a valuable tool for Senior Diversity Officers, Academic Diversity Officers, institutional leaders, diversity professionals and others in- and outside higher education in responding to the challenges to college and university diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging efforts. Read more.

The U.S. Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights and the U.S. Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division announced the release of two resources to help colleges and universities better understand the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision.

Two dozen higher education diversity leaders looking to strengthen their professional skills gathered on Case Western Reserve University’s campus in Cleveland last month, where they spent four intensive days learning from the best in the field through case studies, interactive workshops, peer collaboration and more. Read more.

A sampling of recent news articles featuring NADOHE and President Paulette Granberry Russell. Read more.

To build diverse and inclusive campuses and boost generational wealth, higher education must be affordable and accessible. A college degree makes social mobility more possible, but debt impedes this dream. Read more.

The work to ensure every student in our country has equal and equitable access to a college education continues, even on this dark day in our nation’s history. Read more.

The Supreme Court has erred grievously in overturning decades of precedent that has affirmed the legality and value of race-conscious admissions practices. Today’s rulings present yet another obstacle for students seeking equitable access to the opportunities that a college degree offers. Read more.

Public universities have a responsibility to extend educational opportunities for all, to promote critical thinking, and to advance intellectual excellence. This law abandons that responsibility. Read more.

NADOHE commends the Department of Education and the Biden administration for bringing attention to the concerning rise in antisemitic harassment and to the need for access to education that is free of discrimination based on protected categories under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Read more.

We are beyond disappointed that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a new law (SB 266) that takes direct aim at the work of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in higher education. Read more.

At its April meeting, NADOHE’s Board of Directors approved a public policy platform to guide the Association’s policy priorities for the remainder of this academic year and the 2023-24 academic year.  Read more.

NADOHE celebrates individuals and institutions for their exemplary achievements and contributions to lead higher education toward inclusive excellence. Read more.

NADOHE submitted a comment to the Federal Register regarding proposed updates to the Office of Management and Budget's race and ethnicity statistical standards. Read more.

Earlier this week, the Supreme Court heard arguments in a pair of cases regarding the Biden administration’s ability to forgive student loans. While we do not yet know what the outcome of these cases will be, what is clear is this: The monumental action announced last fall by the White House would have a transformative effect for more than 40 million borrowers. Read more.

NADOHE President Paulette Granberry Russell has talked with various media outlets in response to recent moves to defund diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. Read more

NADOHE celebrates Black History Month and expresses its gratitude for the Black heroes and leaders who have contributed to our shared American history and culture.  We encourage reflection on this year’s Black History Month theme: “Black Resistance.” Read more.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE | Like many of you, I am watching in disgust at the legislation cropping up in states such as Oklahoma, Florida, and Texas, which seeks to limit academic freedom and subjects that can be taught, and dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion work. Read more.

President Granberry Russell provides insight and offers support in the wake of White House announcment on the racist bomb threats on Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Read more.

We are in a challenging time for justice, as even mere discussion of diversity, equity and inclusion in classrooms is under threat in some states. We encourage our members to be inspired by Dr. King’s legacy and ideals as they prepare for the year ahead, with all it may bring. Read more.

In 2022, we’ve experienced numerous bomb threats rooted in racism on college campuses. Today, we experienced yet another such threat against Tufts University. Today’s threat centered on a belief that Tufts was promoting an anti-white set of beliefs. Read more.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE | We are at the point of the academic year where we can rest and reflect on all that we’ve accomplished this term. For our Association, we have accomplished feats which were once dreams, and we’ve been at the forefront of educating and advocating on matters that benefit our collective work. Read more.

In November, NADOHE launched the 2022 Standards of Professional Practice Institute (SPPI) for early- and mid-career diversity leaders in higher education. The program is led by NADOHE Board Member, Clyde Wilson Pickett, held virtually and will meet twice a month until NADOHE’s Annual Conference in April. This professional development institute is modeled after NADOHE’s Standards of Professional Practice. Read more.

“Challenges to Race in Higher Education Admissions" webinar series presenter, Art Coleman shares resourceful information for higher education practioners on how to prepare for the future of race in admissions. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education joined ACE and more than 60 other higher education organizations in a letter encouraging Congress to pass legislation to protect Dreamers permanently. Read more.

Preparing for the outcome of the cases before the Supreme Court regarding race-conscious admissions practices, we have gathered insightful information to keep you and your institution up to date. Read more.

We renew our call on the Supreme Court to affirm the legality and morality of race-conscious admissions. The educational excellence that results from diversity and that fuels national and global excellence is at stake. Read more.

Despite long-standing precedent and rulings that time and time again have affirmed the legality and value of race-conscious admissions practices, they are deeply threatened by a pair of cases that will soon be heard by the Supreme Court. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education is pleased to announce Dr. Chris Linder as incoming editor-in-chief of the Journal of Diversity in Higher Education, published quarterly in collaboration with the American Psychological Association. Read more.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE | Our recent international conference with Coventry University served as a reminder of why it is absolutely essential to continue to have gatherings with scholars and practitioners in North America, Europe, and elsewhere across the globe. Read more.

NADOHE submitted a comment to the Federal Register regarding draft Title IX regulations announced by the Department of Education in June. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) commends the Biden administration for the final rule released by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that would preserve Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). Now we must do more. Read more.

As leaders in higher education committed to addressing the disparities in outcomes for college students from marginalized communities, the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) supports President Biden’s announcement on student loan forgiveness, while also acknowledging that it does not go far enough. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education applauds recent comments by Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona regarding college rankings and the U.S. Department of Education’s renewed commitment to student success through the creation of its College Completion Fund grant program and the expansion of its Project Success initiative. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) is proud to announce the inaugural cohort of its new Academic Diversity Officer Fellows Program (ADOFP), which offers leadership development and mentorship for new and early career academic diversity officers. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) is proud to join the amicus brief of the American Council of Education (ACE) along with 38 other higher education associations urging the Supreme Court to reaffirm the legality and value of race-conscious admissions policies, and the autonomy of higher education to exercise “careful, holistic review” of students. Read more.

For 50 years, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 has stood as a cornerstone of equal access to education. From its start, it paved the way for generations of women to enroll in institutions of higher education with the promise of equal opportunity, protection, and resources. As efforts towards greater inclusivity have progressed, we have seen interpretation expand to include sexual orientation and gender identity, a testament to the comprehensive impact of Title IX.

Yet we know there is still more work to do. Read more.

In honor of the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy, the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) recognizes the role DACA has played in providing access to higher education, employment, and opportunity for hundreds of thousands of undocumented students. To build diverse and inclusive campuses, college education must be accessible to any student who desires an education. Read more.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE | Over the past few weeks, we have borne witness to near-daily acts of mass violence. These acts of violence are part of a troubling increase in targeted violence against Asian, Jewish, LGBTQ+, and Black Americans, with numerous studies and the top U.S. law enforcement officials pinpointing white supremacy as the nation’s primary domestic terrorism threat. The prevalence of such ideology demonstrates the importance of the work we do as scholars and practitioners advancing inclusive excellence. Yet, we know the psychological impact of this violence and the emotional toll of our work is immense. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) is joining the growing coalition of higher education organizations and advocacy groups calling on Congress to double the Pell Grant. As the Pell Grant celebrates its 50th anniversary in May 2022, we recognize the legacy of the program as the foundation of the nation’s federal aid system, offering more equal access to education for millions of low-income Americans each year. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education commends The William T. Grant Foundation and the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) on their partnership aimed at improving the use and effectiveness of research, particularly regarding youth. Effective policy formulation depends on research that is designed with practical use and meaningful impact in mind. Read more.

NADOHE commends Harvard’s $100 million commitment to addressing its history of enslaving African and Native Americans by expanding educational opportunities, memorializing those they enslaved, and partnering with HBCUs and the communities of those affected. Likewise, the University of California's recent decision to waive tuition for members of federally recognized tribes centers the financial resources needed to ensure access to education is possible for those who have long been denied it. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education stands for peace and justice and condemns the Russian government’s invasion of Ukraine and the violence perpetrated against the Ukrainian people. Read more.

In response to efforts by some lawmakers to suppress free speech and the open exchange of ideas—especially those that are complex and challenging—NADOHE was proud to sign onto a statement on preserving free and open academic inquiry, alongside the American Council on Education and more than 90 other higher education associations and organizations. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education applauds the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the American Council on Education for their intent to adjust the Carnegie Classifications to better reflect the public purpose of higher education. Read more.

Black History Month is our collective reminder to acknowledge and recognize the contributions of Black people to American history and culture.  Annually, during this month, we celebrate the accomplishments of Black people while also reflecting on how systems of oppression and harm have often stood in the way of progress. Read more.

As colleges and universities across the country remember the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. this Monday, we call for thoughtful reflection on the attempts to disenfranchise voters, particularly people of color and young adults. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education is deeply concerned about recent bomb threats at colleges and universities, and in particular the troubling pattern of threats against HBCUs and Black student spaces. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) released a new guide for higher education leaders to foster diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice on their campuses. A Framework for Advancing Anti-Racism on Campus is a comprehensive tool to support students, faculty and staff as they work to shift culture. Read more.

After the murder of George Floyd in the summer of 2020, people across the country, including college students, engaged in massive and sustained protests. Many institutions of higher education released public statements expressing support and solidarity in the days after the protests began. Together with NASPA (Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education), NADOHE analyzed those statements and the actions taken thereafter. The resulting report, “Moving from Words to Action,” is now available. Read more.

Nearly half a million DACA learners call our universities home, and thousands of others have been pushed into the shadows due to fear and intimidation. On behalf of NADOHE, President Paulette Granberry Russell signed onto a national campaign letter urging the passage of the Dream Act of 2021 to support our diverse community of learners. Read more.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) announces the availability of a report on the experiences of Chief Diversity Officers navigating the tensions between diversity and free expression. This report, Balancing Diversity and Free Expression in Higher Education: Diversity Officers’ Experiences, is a joint initiative with the University of California (UC) National Center for Free Speech and Civic Engagement. Read more.

NADOHE has signed a joint statement to "state our firm opposition to a spate of legislative proposals being introduced across the country that target academic lessons, presentations, and discussions of racism and related issues in American history in schools, colleges and universities." Read more.

Racist and violent behavior against the Asian, Asian American, and the Pacific Islander community must stop. Scapegoating must stop, harassment must stop, and hate must stop. As a civilized society we are a nation of laws and human rights. We urge our leaders to uphold these rights and to take action against hate crimes. We urge colleges and universities to denounce acts of racism and hate on their campus and in society. Read more.