The WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), an accreditor through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges that oversees 170 colleges in California and Hawaii, is considering removing the phrase “commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion” from its accreditation standards. The proposed changes come as conservative lawmakers and the incoming Trump administration scrutinize DEI efforts in higher education.
Under the current standards, member colleges must promote “the success of all students” and explicitly commit to DEI principles. The proposed revisions would require institutions to focus instead on “institutional excellence and success for all students.” Critics say the move could signal a retreat from DEI initiatives, while supporters argue it could protect accreditation from political interference.
Jeremy C. Young, program director for Freedom to Learn at PEN America, expressed concern over the timing of the proposal, suggesting it may be seen as preemptive compliance with expected demands from the incoming administration. “This creates the perception that the commission is bowing to political pressure,” Young said in a news release.
President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to overhaul accreditation standards, accusing accrediting bodies of advancing what he calls “radical left” ideologies. His administration is poised to pursue an agenda that would weaken DEI policies at colleges by pressuring accreditors, who serve as gatekeepers for federal financial aid, to align with conservative priorities.
Jamienne S. Studley, president of WSCUC, defended the proposed changes, saying they aim to clarify language without abandoning DEI goals. “The three words were not serving us well,” she said. “This is about ensuring student success for all groups, not just those defined by racial or ethnic characteristics.”
The proposal has sparked pushback from advocacy groups, including the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education. In an open letter the group called the changes “disappointing,” arguing that the language of DEI is essential to ensuring equitable practices in higher education.
The commission will discuss the revisions at a December 17 meeting, at which point it may accept, reject, or further modify the proposal.
