Recent federal executive orders targeting diversity, equity and inclusion programs are causing significant disruption in higher education. Students and officials at FAMU are left questioning how these changes will affect their campus and the university’s future. As a historically black college that utilizes DEI programs to support its diverse student body, the university is directly vulnerable to federal policies mandating their elimination.
The federal mandate stems from the administration’s stance that DEI programs are illegal racial preferences, and it requires institutions to cease race-based considerations in admissions, hiring, scholarships and other activities. This mandate follows the Supreme Court’s decision against affirmative action in college admissions, which now extends to all federally funded initiatives.
Changes affecting the institution’s scholarship and grant structures, hiring practices, federal research support for diversity projects and corporate relationships collectively undermine its institutional stability. These changes are part of a broader trend affecting colleges nationwide, with neighboring Florida State University already facing potential $65 million in budget cuts due to these new policies. The uncertainty raises questions about the financial future.
Despite the legal challenges that have emerged against these policies, FAMU’s leadership must prepare for the possibility of financial restructuring. To ensure they’re ready for the new regulations, the university is reviewing its programs, searching for different sources of money and carefully watching how laws might change. With its commitment to educating underrepresented students, leadership works diligently to safeguard the university’s mission and financial stability in this changing landscape.
Students with varied academic focuses, such as Jazzlyn Upson, double majoring in business administration and graphic design and minoring in military science, will be greatly impacted by the removal of DEI programs. Upson is passionate about the Black identity and student advocacy, and she is concerned about the future of the supportive environment the institution has fostered.
“The federal DEI ban is crazy work,” she shared. “This is where I’ve finally found a place where I truly feel seen and supported academically. The idea that DEI programs, which make that possible, could be taken away? It feels like an attack on what makes this in FAMU. I’m worried about how it’ll impact resources, student support and the conversations we have about inclusion and identity.”
Upson’s sentiment reflects many students’ concerns about the future of their academic and social experiences. FAMU is known for its strong sense of community, especially for students from historically underrepresented backgrounds. The possibility of losing DEI programs adds an
additional layer of uncertainty and fear about how these changes will impact student engagement and growth.
In response to the federal changes, FAMU’s Financial Aid Office is taking steps to ensure that students’ financial well-being remains intact, even as federal support becomes uncertain. A representative from the office shared their approach to managing the situation:
“As a representative of the Financial Aid Office, we are proactively addressing the potential impacts of the federal DEI ban by reviewing and adjusting our scholarship and grant policies to ensure compliance while maintaining our commitment to supporting underrepresented students,” the representative explained. “We’re actively pursuing alternative funding sources, including increased alumni engagement, private donations, foundation grants, and corporate partnerships. Additionally, we’re providing comprehensive financial aid counseling to help students navigate these changes, closely monitoring legal and policy developments, and engaging in strategic planning to maintain financial stability while upholding the mission of providing access to quality education for all students.”
The Financial Aid Office’s efforts focus on preserving FAMU’s core values and ensuring students receive the resources they need to succeed, even in the face of shifting federal policies. While the institution faces a complex and evolving challenge, its leaders are committed to maintaining a strong, inclusive environment. Students and representatives alike are working together to ensure that the heart of the mission— providing quality education and support for all students— remains intact.
Reflecting the deep connection students like Jazzlyn Upson feel toward their university, the ongoing effort to address these policy changes will directly shape the future educational experience for this diverse student demographic.