With state laws in place that curtail DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) initiatives at public universities, some private institutions are stepping in to support affected students. These actions aim to counter restrictive measures and provide safe, inclusive spaces for individuals displaced or disenfranchised by the new regulations.
Colorado College (CC) recently launched the Healing and Affirming Village and Empowerment Network (HAVEN), a program for students transferring from public institutions in states such as Texas, Florida, and North Carolina, where anti-DEI laws have been enacted. Designed to eliminate barriers to transferring, HAVEN offers comprehensive financial aid, housing, and access to counseling and identity affirming resources.
“HAVEN is a response to an immediate need for those in harm’s way and I am proud that CC is acting out our commitment to antiracism in such a meaningful manner,” Rosalie Rodriguez, CC’s associate vice president of institutional equity and belonging, said in press release. “For colleges that value educating the whole student, now is the time to live out your value system and push back against these repressive laws.”
The program has emphasized timely admissions, a streamlined transfer process, and full credit for prior coursework.
Similarly, Hampshire College extended a transfer pathway in 2023 for students from New College of Florida, following significant administrative and policy changes at the institution. Hampshire offered admission to all New College students in good standing, matching their tuition to minimize financial barriers.
This initiative came in response to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ overhaul of New College’s operations, including the elimination of DEI programming and the appointment of conservative leadership. In a March 2023 statement, Hampshire described these changes as an attack on academic freedom and democratic ideals.
“What is happening at New College of Florida is merely the most radical example of increasingly aggressive efforts to suppress meaningful examination of the realities of our society and curb the advancement of democratic ideals, aspirations that should be the mission of higher education,” the statement read. “Increasingly, public institutions are a target for those trying to censor discussions of racism, white supremacy, gender identity, structural barriers to equity, and the reproduction of oppressive hierarchies. This doesn’t serve the students, it doesn’t serve democracy, and it certainly doesn’t serve the world those students seek to improve.”
Rice University, a private institution in Houston, has also taken steps to support marginalized students. Following the passage of Texas Senate Bill 17, which prohibits DEI offices at the state’s public universities, Rice PRIDE — a student-run LGBTQIA+ organization.— began offering honorary memberships to students from affected public institutions.
More than 120 students from over 20 campuses have signed up, gaining access to Rice’s Queer Resource Center’s crucial resources such as LGBTQIA+ literature and networking opportunities.
“We are proud of Rice PRIDE and its efforts to help LGBTQ+ students,” Amy Dittmar, PhD, Rice’s provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, said in a press release. “These efforts reflect Rice’s culture of care, which often extends beyond our campus to help ensure students and scholars in Texas and Houston specifically can find a supportive, welcoming place as they further their education.”
These efforts illustrate a broader trend of private institutions leveraging their autonomy to actively promote their campus DEI programs to support others. Unlike their public counterparts, private colleges are not bound by anti-DEI laws, allowing them to maintain.— and in some cases expand.— their commitment to these ideals.
Colorado College, Hampshire College, and Rice University are among a growing number of private universities offering sanctuary to students who have experienced a loss of resources through financial aid, academic partnerships, or expanded support services. As anti-DEI measures continue to reshape the higher education landscape, private colleges are stepping into leadership roles to ensure students and faculty have access to the programs and community they need to thrive.
