Louisiana Lawmakers Reject Ban on DEI-Related College Courses
A controversial proposal to ban college courses that include concepts related to DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) has failed in the Louisiana legislature. The bill, introduced by Rep. Valarie Hodges, would have barred public universities from offering instruction that “advances” DEI or “critical theory.” Opponents argued the legislation would limit academic freedom and hurt faculty recruitment. The House Education Committee voted 6-5 to defer the measure, effectively halting its progress this session. The move reflects growing tension between state-level efforts to restrict DEI and ongoing support for such programs within higher education. (Louisiana Illuminator)
Ohio State to Require AI Fluency for All Undergraduates
Ohio State University has announced a new requirement that all undergraduate students demonstrate fluency in artificial intelligence by the time they graduate. The policy, set to begin in fall 2026, positions the university as one of the first major institutions to integrate AI literacy across disciplines. The initiative will include new coursework, experiential learning opportunities, and certification options, with the goal of preparing students for an increasingly AI-driven job market. “Every student, regardless of major, must understand how to responsibly engage with AI,” said OSU President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. (Fortune)
Barton College Launches Medical Fellowship with Local Hospital
Barton College has partnered with Wilson Medical Center to create a new fellowship program designed to prepare students for careers in health care. The Wilson Medical Fellows initiative will offer hands-on clinical experience, mentorship, and professional development for selected undergraduates pursuing health-related fields. The program will prioritize students from underserved backgrounds and include both academic-year and summer opportunities. College officials described it as a key investment in regional workforce development and a model for community-campus collaboration. (Barton College)
Elevate Sports Ventures Backs College Athletics with New Investment Program
Elevate Sports Ventures has launched a Collegiate Investment Initiative aimed at expanding and enhancing NCAA athletic programs. The effort includes a multimillion-dollar fund to support infrastructure upgrades, media rights consulting, and student-athlete experience improvements. Targeted at both Division I and mid-major institutions, the initiative comes amid growing financial pressures on college athletics and increased scrutiny of NIL (name, image, likeness) dynamics. “This is about building long-term value for athletic departments and positioning them for future growth,” said Elevate CEO Al Guido. (Business Wire)
