The University of Iowa announced it will close its School of Gender, Women and Sexuality Studies as the state's public universities continue to adapt to the changing DEI landscape.
“Under the proposed plan, the university would close the departments of American Studies and Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies, as well as the majors in American Studies and Social Justice, which currently have fewer than 60 students combined, and create new departments. “Social and Cultural Analysis major'' announced by the University of Iowa. press release December 17th.
The decision comes after the Iowa Board of Regents approved 10 recommendations to scale back diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts in the Hawkeye State.
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The University of Iowa announced it will close its School of Gender, Women and Sexuality Studies as the state's public universities continue to adapt to the changing DEI landscape. (Getty Images)
“We are excited to be able to reposition these programs for the future,” said Sarah Sanders, dean of the University of Iowa College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS). “The creation of the School of Social and Cultural Analysis will allow us to build on our tremendous legacy in areas essential to our mission, while creating space for more sustainable structures and innovative new curricula. ”
“Currently, these programs are managed by multiple deans and multiple directors,” said Roland Lasevskis, associate dean of arts and humanities at CLAS. “Under this proposed plan, schools would have a single, dedicated leadership team to oversee the operation of the program.”
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The announcement said that if approved at the February board meeting, the proposal would go into effect on July 1, 2025. (Getty Images)
“Students in this major will be able to connect their personal experiences and ideas to a larger social context,” said Cornelia Lang, CLAS associate dean for undergraduate education. “This will prepare you well for potential careers and postgraduate work in cultural studies and related fields through adaptable skills such as analytical thinking, effective communication and research.”
The announcement said that if approved at the February board meeting, the proposal would go into effect on July 1, 2025.
The University of Iowa is not the only academic institution to change its stance on DEI programs in recent months.
This month, the University of Michigan ended its requirement to submit DEI statements regarding faculty hiring, promotion, and tenure. Austin University (UATX), a private liberal arts college, also replaced DEI with outcomes-based initiatives this year.
Some states, including Florida, limit or prohibit funding for DEI in state agencies.
The University of Iowa did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital.
FOX News' Taylor Penley contributed to this report.
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