University Shuts Down Office for Inclusion and Belonging: What’s Next for Community Engagement?

The University recently dissolved its Office for Inclusion, Belonging and Intergroup Communication (IBIC). This significant change came on July 11, when the director, Ester Sihite, was let go along with a part-time employee. Some of IBIC’s programs will now operate under the Office of Student Engagement (OSE).

The announcement surprised around 35 student employees, who learned about it through an email from Assistant Vice Provost Samuel Santos. He mentioned “ongoing fiscal challenges” as a reason for the decision. “The reorganization was aimed at preserving essential elements of student life,” he stated.

IBIC, founded in 2016, focused on workshops and discussions about identity and belonging. Under Sihite’s leadership, the office conducted over 60 workshops, engaging more than 1,300 participants. Sihite expressed disappointment at how the office’s closure was communicated, stating, “I wasn’t given much information. I was just told, ‘We’re sunsetting the office, and today’s your last day.’”

Student feedback about this change has been mixed. Many see the programs from IBIC as vital parts of campus culture. Former peer facilitator Jenna Ali shared her sadness upon hearing the news, saying, “None of us thought that was going to happen.” She noted uncertainty about how the transition to OSE would affect the future of programs like the Peer Facilitation Program.

There’s a historical backdrop to the University’s decision. Nationally, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives face increased scrutiny, especially with political forces pushing against them. For example, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order aiming to reduce DEI programs at federally funded institutions. This puts Stanford’s funding and policies under intense pressure.

The lack of clarity surrounding the IBIC’s closing raises concern about the University’s priorities. Students like Ali believe this may signal a shift away from a focus on diversity. “Having an office like IBIC was a unique part of Stanford,” she remarked.

While Santos assured that the University remains committed to inclusion, students worry about losing dedicated spaces for dialogue and community building. Former peer facilitator Ashwin Prabu emphasized the need for safe spaces for difficult conversations, especially in today’s divided climate.

Sosi Day, another former peer facilitator, noted, “Without it, we will lose sight of each other.” She stressed that the challenge now will be to rebuild community ties in a world filled with division. Many hope that the spirit of IBIC continues, even if its formal structure has disappeared.

As universities face similar challenges, the responses of students and administrators will shape the future of inclusive spaces on campuses. Encouraging open dialogue and understanding remains crucial for fostering a strong community.



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