The University of Utah’s David Eccles School of Business is currently under investigation by the Trump administration. They’re looking into claims that the school may have used race as a factor in its graduate admissions process. This inquiry is part of a broader investigation involving 45 universities accused of practices that the administration argues unfairly disadvantage white students.
U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon emphasized that admissions should be based on merit, not race. The administration has warned schools to stop any programs that offer racial preferences within two weeks, or risk losing federal funding. This move is part of a larger agenda to roll back diversity and inclusion efforts in higher education.
Many of the schools under investigation partner with organizations like the PhD Project. This nonprofit aims to increase diversity among business school faculties by supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds. However, the Department of Education claims that such programs may violate federal law, particularly in light of a recent Supreme Court ruling that ended affirmative action in college admissions.
The PhD Project has responded, stating that it has worked for three decades to expand the talent pool in business schools and has opened its membership to everyone who shares that goal. The University of Utah is listed as a participant in this project, but it’s unclear how long it has been involved. The school has previously hosted events where prospective students could learn more about its doctorate program.
Historically, the U. has been the center of a heated debate over diversity initiatives. In early 2024, the Utah Legislature passed strict anti-DEI legislation, which Governor Spencer Cox promptly signed. This law is considered one of the most rigorous in the U.S., banning diversity initiatives in both education and government sectors. Since its implementation, the University of Utah has had to close several resource centers aimed at supporting various communities, like the Black Cultural Center.
Despite these challenges, University President Taylor Randall maintains that the law doesn’t reflect the institution’s values. The law does allow for some diversity efforts, but only when required for federal funding or research. Recent Trump administration policies, however, appear to eliminate these provisions, making it harder for schools to navigate federal requirements for funding.
As the investigation continues, the impact on the University of Utah and similar institutions remains to be seen. Not only could these schools face scrutiny, but they also risk losing substantial federal support, which could total millions of dollars. As this story develops, reactions from students, faculty, and the broader community are likely to influence the discourse around diversity initiatives in education.
For more on the ongoing effects of diversity policies in the educational landscape, see this article from Education Week.
Check out this related article: Stunning Photos Capture the Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse: A Global Spectacle You Can’t Miss!
Source linkUniversity of Utah, University of Utah Business School, University of Utah Trump, University of Utah Business School Trump, Trump flags University of Utah, Utah DEI, University of Utah DEI, University of Utah PhD Project, Utah PhD Project, PhD Project
