A report outlining how Iowa's regent universities will comply with Senate File 2435 was presented to the state Board of Regents at its Nov. 6-7 meeting in Cedar Falls. Signed into law in May, the legislation prohibits diversity, equity and inclusion offices at the regent universities as broadly defined by the law and with limited exceptions.
The majority of Iowa State units, programs, positions and spaces complied with the law or were otherwise exempt and may continue operating as they do now. However, the following changes are necessary to comply with the law:
- University programming associated with the Center for LGBTQIA+ Student Success will be discontinued. Student organizations, which are exempt from the legislation, may continue to offer programming and social activities in this area. The physical space in the Memorial Union will now be known simply as The Center and will remain open to all students and student groups free of charge.
- The annual Thomas L. Hill Iowa State Conference on Race and Ethnicity (ISCORE) will be renamed the Iowa State Conference on Research, Opportunity, Equality and Excellence in Education, and the scope of this event will be broadened to comply with the law. A committee of faculty, staff and students will be established to develop this conference.
- Three staff associated with these units will have their roles and responsibilities broadened to support student success for all students.
- Nine college staff who currently are in the multicultural student success job profile will have their positions reclassified into job profiles that more accurately reflect their roles and responsibilities to support student success for all students. The multicultural student success job profile will be discontinued.
- Any remaining DEI committees will undergo a review to ensure compliance with the law.
"While the law requires us to make adjustments, it does not alter Iowa State's long-standing commitment to have a welcoming campus," said President Wendy Wintersteen. "Since 1869, Iowa State has opened its doors to everyone with a desire to learn and work hard. We will comply with the law as we continue to support the educational success of all students and cultivate an environment where all members of the ISU community feel they belong."
The board has requested the regent universities complete most adjustments for compliance by Dec. 31.
A short FAQ
What programs and spaces were identified as exempt under the law?
Programs that were identified as exempt are listed in the board agenda on pages 80-81. At Iowa State University, the office of multicultural student affairs, including the Multicultural Center and the George A. Jackson Black Cultural Center; the Margaret Sloss Center for Women and Gender Equity and others do not function as a DEI office, and are not impacted by the law.
How does the law impact student organizations?
Student organizations are exempt from the law and may offer programming, activities or events as currently allowed by university policy.
How does the university support student organizations?
Faculty and staff serve as advisors to student organizations. Student engagement professionals in the division of student affairs provide resources and training for advisors and student organization members. Student Government takes requests for funding various activities proposed by student organizations.
Will students or other university community members be charged to use The Center's space?
No. There is no charge to reserve and use the space for activities.
Does the law impact coursework or research?
The law does not directly impact academic coursework or research.
Student success remains the priority
Student success programs are a priority and available for all students at Iowa State. The university is committed to providing a community where students can learn and grow while reaching their personal and academic goals. Information about leadership programs, learning communities and connection spaces are listed on the You Belong Here website.
Faculty and staff may serve as an advisor for a student organization. There are nearly 800 student organizations at Iowa State. Additionally, the Cyclone Support website connects students to mental health, safety and support resources on campus.
