VCU news

Dear VCU community:

Over the past several weeks, VCU has been actively reviewing and seeking guidance about White House executive orders and federal agency memos and directives that impact higher education. Judicial rulings have, to varying degrees, paused some of the immediate impacts to research funding and diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

Of note, no judicial rulings have, as of this writing, impacted the Feb. 14 “Dear Colleague” letter from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights. This letter outlines how the department interprets federal laws about nondiscrimination. 

The letter states, in part, that institutions are prohibited “from using race in decisions pertaining to admissions, hiring, promotion, compensation, financial aid, scholarships, prizes, administrative support, discipline, housing, graduation ceremonies, and all other aspects of student, academic, and campus life.

The letter advised institutions to ensure compliance by Feb. 28 or their federal funding could be at risk. In response, VCU established a task force of university leaders to oversee our review of the letter.

The university’s initial review has found that VCU policies, practices and documents are generally aligned with the Department of Education letter. In some instances, further evaluation is needed; in other places, changes will be made.

VCU will follow state and federal law and is dedicated to creating an environment free from discrimination. Guidance will be provided to HR professionals and hiring managers early next week about updates to some HR policies and practices.

The university will also review the Quest 2028 and Research strategic plans in light of new federal guidance. We will share more details about the review – which will include seeking input from students, faculty and staff – in the near future.

This is an evolving situation; we should expect more federal guidance and action and be prepared to respond as needed. As such, we have created a website about federal actions to help keep you informed.

This augments our website focused on research-related federal issues. Please visit these sites for the latest information and updates as news and changes occur.

In times of change and uncertainty, it’s important to remember what makes VCU special. Our commitment to serving the many people and communities who rely on us is a foundational ingredient to our success.

As we’ve written previously, following federal requirements and supporting all members of our university community are not mutually exclusive. VCU will continue to be a place where all people are welcome and can achieve their fullest potential.

Sincerely,

Michael Rao, President
Fotis Sotiropoulos, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
Marlon Levy, Senior Vice President for Health Sciences and CEO of VCU Health
Meredith Weiss, Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer
Faye Belgrave, Vice President for Inclusive Excellence and Chief Diversity Officer