The North Dakota State Board of Higher Education (SBHE) announced Wednesday that it will not be making any immediate changes to its policies following a new directive from the U.S. Department of Education on race-based policies in education.
The federal guidance, issued on February 14, 2025, reinforced restrictions on considering race in any aspect of education. The Department’s letter warned schools against using race in admissions, hiring, financial aid, scholarships, discipline, housing, and student programs. It also took aim at Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, arguing they disguise racial preferences under different language. Schools that do not comply, the letter stated, could lose federal funding.
During its February 27 meeting, the SBHE went into a closed-door executive session to receive legal advice on the directive. When the board returned to open session, Chair Tim Mihalick stated that after reviewing the guidance, no board policies will be changed at this time. Mihalick also expressed support for North Dakota University System (NDUS) students, faculty, and staff.
The Board reaffirmed its commitment to diversity, citing SBHE Policy 100.5, which states:
“We value diversity of thought and of people and believing that diversity is a necessity to a vibrant learning community that pursues excellence in scholarship and research. We are committed to providing a university system that is trustworthy, supportive, safe, and welcoming. We are committed to ensuring intercultural and international diversity in our curriculum and our people.”
For now, that policy remains unchanged and continues to guide the work of the SBHE and NDUS.
