In a letter sent to academic institutions that receive federal funding, The United States Department of Education’s (DOE) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued new guidance on Feb. 14 enforcing civil rights laws in higher education. The new recommendations prompted Rowan University officials to review its potential impacts on pre-existing policies and programs. 

In a statement released Wednesday, Feb. 19, to faculty, administration, and student body, the university acknowledged the concerns of faculty and staff members. After meeting with senate officers Monday morning, Feb. 17, Rowan University President Ali Houshmand about the OCR letter, he assured the campus and Rowan community that his team is carefully examining the federal policy changes that seek to restrict the university’s efforts to address racial discrimination. 

“As we navigate these changes, I encourage open dialogue and will provide updates as more information becomes available. We’ve developed resources to help the University better understand changes happening at the federal level. We’ll continue to keep those updated,” said Houshmand in the statement that was issued. 

Shortly after the President’s office, general counsel, and upper administration reviewed the OCR letter, Rowan University worked rapidly to develop a FAQ page with resources. The web page addresses the federal policy changes and their potential impact on higher education institutions. 

Currently, the online page answers seven of the most frequently asked questions, such as how Rowan is responding to the actions and policies of the new federal administration, in addition to what the university is doing to safeguard the rights of all members within the community. 

The resources page also offers a direct line of contact for community members to send their questions to the official email address of the Office of The President. The latest updates include some of the federal changes that may affect research funding and any policy changes affecting the Rowan community as a result of the executive orders issued by the Trump administration. 

Additionally, resources for both immigrant and international students, plus financial aid, are covered. The financial aid tab states that students will be notified immediately via email should any changes affect their aid and package. 

“While we work to address these concerns and questions, please know that one thing has not changed: Rowan University remains dedicated to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for all students, faculty, and staff. And though changes are happening, Rowan’s resilience lies in the fact that when faced with change, we have always doubled down on our core values, mission, and strategic values of access, affordability, quality, and economic impact,” said Houshmand.

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