Northwest Missouri State University dissolves Office of Diversity and Inclusion
MARYVILLE, Mo. (KCTV) - Northwest Missouri State University (NWMSU) is the latest institution to drop its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programming, following close on the heels of other institutions and businesses across the country.
The Northwest Missourian – NWMSU’s student newspaper – posted about the change on Feb. 3, 2025. It cited an email from University President Lance Tatum, sent earlier that day only to the faculty.
“Northwest is dissolving its Office of Diversity and Inclusion and transitioning to a model that broadens our holistic approach to student achievement,” said Tatum in part.
Although the specifics of NWMSU’s new model were not specifically outlined, it comes in the wake of a nationwide shift in sentiment toward DEI programs and policies.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE
On Trump’s first day in office, he signed a sweeping range of executive orders, including one to put all federal DEI staff on paid leave before an eventual termination. It also includes measures to end government funding for DEI programs.
NWMSU’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) does not use state or federal funding, opting instead to use a student fee added on top of tuition, the Northwest Missourian reported in April 2023.
Around that time, Missouri legislators banned the use of the state budget to fund diversity programs at various institutions, including public universities. The Supreme Court further banned universities from using race as a factor in their issions processes.
ODI’s dissolution comes around a week after Missouri State University made an identical move on Jan. 29, citing pressure to keep its state funding.
“38% of our budget comes from the state. For us to continue providing a quality education to our students, we must align with the expectations established by state leadership,” said MSU President Richard B. Williams.
MSU students protested the change, while the neighboring Drury University said it has no current plans to follow MSU’s lead. In part, the school stated that it will “continue to monitor state and federal laws and will comply as necessary. No changes in staffing and/or programming are planned at this time.”
As of Tuesday morning, the ODI webpage was still standing. Its mission statement reads:
“The Office for Diversity & Inclusion strives to advance Northwest’s efforts for academic success and inclusive excellence. Through strategic initiatives, partnerships, policy development, innovation, and education, we aim to preserve a campus community that demonstrates respect, understanding, and acceptance of all individuals.”
ALSO READ: A day without immigrants: Businesses, workers go on strike to show impact of absence
Copyright 2025 KCTV. All rights reserved.
