University of Michigan Closes DEI Offices Following Federal Mandates

The university redirects funding to student-focused programs after Trump administration orders and funding threats reshape higher education policies.

The University of Michigan officially closed its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices and discontinued its DEI 2.0 strategic plan on March 27, 2025.
The decision follows executive orders by President Trump and a February 2025 funding warning from the Department of Education targeting DEI programs.
University leadership announced plans to reallocate resources to student-facing initiatives, including expanded financial aid, mental health support, and cultural programs.
Since launching its DEI program in 2016, the university invested over $250 million and saw increases in first-generation and low-income student enrollment, but the program faced criticism for its inclusivity and effectiveness.
The closure has drawn polarized reactions, with supporters citing a return to merit-based practices and critics warning of setbacks to equity and inclusion efforts in higher education.