Wright State University Shuts Down DEI Office and Five Identity Centers: What Ohio’s New Law Means for Students

Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio, recently made headlines by closing its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) office. This decision came right after Senate Bill 1, also known as the Advance Ohio Higher Education Act, became law on June 27, 2025. The law requires public universities in Ohio to make significant changes to their DEI initiatives.

Following this legislation, Wright State’s Board of Trustees voted to dissolve the Division of Inclusive Excellence and shut down five cultural and identity centers, which included support systems for various communities like the Asian and Native American Center and the LGBTQ+ Center. All staff in these offices will be laid off.

In an official statement, the university expressed appreciation for the work that these centers did in fostering a sense of community. They emphasized that the closures were due to new legal obligations, not a lack of value for the services provided.

The impact of this decision is significant. Students previously engaged with these centers are now encouraged to join student-led organizations that align with their interests.

Ohio’s Senate Bill 1 has sparked a wave of changes across the state. For instance, Ohio University also decided to cut its DEI offices, while Ohio State University removed its LGBTQ+ web page, citing potential legal issues. The University of Cincinnati followed suit, announcing the closure of its central Equity & Inclusion office.

Recent data shows that many students and stakeholders are reacting strongly to these changes. A survey from the Ohio Student Advocacy Network revealed that around 70% of students believe DEI initiatives are essential for a positive campus environment. Social media discussions are buzzing, with many expressing disappointment and concern for marginalized communities on campuses.

These developments are part of a larger trend across the United States, where DEI programs are facing increased scrutiny and changes in response to new legislation. Experts warn that such measures could hinder efforts to promote inclusivity in higher education. As public sentiment shifts, institutions may need to find new ways to support diversity without running afoul of the law.

For more on the effects of recent legislation on education and diversity efforts, you can check out this report from the American Council on Education.

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