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University of Michigan Ends Requirement for Faculty Diversity Statements

The University of Michigan has implemented a policy change that will eliminate the requirement for academic departments to request diversity statements from faculty candidates during the hiring, promotion, or tenure evaluation processes.

Decentralized Approach to Diversity Statements

Previously, the decision to require diversity statements was left to individual colleges within the university, which resulted in a decentralized approach across its three campuses. This policy change follows a report from a faculty working group that recommended discontinuing the requirement for standalone diversity statements. The report suggested that faculty members should instead integrate their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts into more comprehensive statements concerning their teaching, research, and service. However, the university decided against adopting this latter recommendation.

Concerns About Free Expression

The report from the faculty working group raised concerns about the potential limitations on free expression and the diversity of thought within the campus community. While DEI statements are often utilized by higher education institutions to assess candidates’ commitment to serving diverse student populations, the practice has elicited considerable debate. Critics, including conservative lawmakers and advocates for free speech, argue that these statements may compel ideological conformity among faculty members. Conversely, proponents assert that such statements help to prioritize diversity within a predominantly White academic landscape, thus fostering an inclusive environment.

Review and Findings

In June, Provost Laurie McCauley formed a team to review the university’s application of diversity statements. The team’s findings, derived from extensive research and nearly 2,000 faculty survey responses, indicated that while these statements could offer valuable insights into candidates’ identities and perspectives, their existing format could obstruct broader institutional diversity initiatives.

Proposed Improvements for Hiring Process

To improve the hiring process, the faculty working group proposed incorporating DEI-related questions into the current teaching, research, and service statements. The group also recommended the initiation of training sessions to aid faculty in effectively articulating their DEI efforts.

National Discussion on DEI Practices

This policy change is taking place amid a wider national discussion regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion in academic hiring practices.

Source: Higher Ed Dive

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