American University’s Center for Diversity and Inclusion will become the Center for Student Belonging, Vice President of Student Affairs Raymond Ou, Assistant Vice President for Student Engagement and Success Dayne Hutchinson and CSB Director Robin Adams announced in an email Friday.
The change comes after the holding of several community listening sessions beginning in November 2024 aimed at understanding how the University could “foster greater belonging, inclusion, and create a campus environment where all students can thrive,” the email said.
The transition is already in progress, according to the email. The Center will remain committed to “Serving as a Resource,” “Fostering Inclusive Spaces,” “Enhancing Student Success” and “Collaborating Across Campus.”
In the past 100 days of his presidency, President Donald Trump has issued a series of executive orders aimed to decrease diversity, equity and inclusion programs in the federal government. As a part of this policy initiative, the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights launched investigations into 52 universities relating to their DEI programming.
The news also follows an April 28 announcement that Harvard University is renaming their Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging to the Office of Community and Campus Life, according to The Harvard Crimson.
“Our priority is to ensure a smooth transition that maintains a strong focus on student support, connection, belonging, and empowerment,” the email said. “We appreciate your patience and engagement as we embark on this next chapter together.”
This article was edited by Tyler Davis and Walker Whalen. Copy editing done by Olivia Citarella, Charlie Mennuti and Jaden Maitland Anderson.
