These federal orders have led to a ban on DEI policies in programs that receive federal funds, significantly impacting many colleges across the United States.

In response to these directives, NC State University announced it will halt specific DEI activities related to federally sponsored programs.

A university spokesperson clarified that while DEI-specific activities must cease, other project work can continue unless a stop-work order is issued.

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education has reported a chilling effect on colleges, with many reevaluating programs and positions due to fears of compliance investigations.

On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order requiring federal agencies to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) considerations from their processes to secure federal funding.

Students at NC State are actively seeking information on how these changes will impact their education and overall experiences at the university.

Rutgers University faced funding restrictions due to these new regulations, resulting in the cancellation of a DEI-focused conference for students from historically Black colleges, affecting around 100 attendees.

The Supreme Court's ruling against affirmative action in 2023 has already constrained diversity efforts at many colleges, prompting a reevaluation of recruitment strategies for students of color.

DEI initiatives aim to ensure fair treatment and participation for historically marginalized groups, including women, veterans, and minorities.

Sheldon Fields, an associate dean at Penn State, emphasized that many professionals dedicated to DEI will continue their work despite the political pressures and challenges they face.

In light of the scrutiny on DEI initiatives, Northeastern University has rebranded its diversity program to 'Belonging in Northeastern,' aiming to maintain its core values while adapting its strategies.

Mount Holyoke College's president, Danielle Holley, has expressed hope that higher education institutions will resist conforming to these federal directives, viewing them as legally challengeable.