TOPEKA (KSNT) – Kansas universities are dropping diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies and support for LGBTQ+ students this week following action by the state’s lawmakers.
Kansas State University and the University of Kansas are rolling back policies this month related to support for LGBTQ+ individuals and DEI policies. This comes after President Donald Trump began moving to end affirmative action and DEI policies at the federal level in early 2025.
K-State announced on July 23 that it will be bringing operations at its Spectrum Center to an end by July 31. K-State established its Spectrum Center in 2010 as “a welcoming and affirming space” at the university meant to provide resources and support to people with differing gender identities and sexualities.
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Vice President for Academic Success and Student Affairs and Dean of Students, Thomas Lane, said the center has served as a place for LGBTQ+ students, staff, faculty and others to gather in a supportive space. Lane said the center has significantly contributed to the university’s national recognition as a place that values LGBTQ+ individuals.
“Though the center’s stand-alone physical space may no longer be in operation, the Division of Academic Success and Student Affairs remains deeply committed to supporting all our students. Staff from across the division will continue working closely with student organization leaders and members, faculty, staff and alumni supporters in our efforts to ensure that every student feels seen, supported and valued at K-State. Our work remains rooted in the foundational belief that all students belong and matter.”
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KU issued a letter on July 22 signed by several university heads regarding its compliance with a new directive from the Kansas Board of Regents. KU reported the board recently issued a new directive to state universities requiring them to take the following actions by July 31, 2025:
- Eliminate any positions that relate to diversity, equity and inclusion;
- Eliminate any mandates, policies, programs, preferences and activities relating to diversity, equity and inclusion;
- Eliminate any training requirements in diversity, equity and inclusion for any employee;
- Cancel any state grants or contracts relating to diversity, equity and inclusion; and
- Remove gender identifying pronouns or gender ideology from email signature blocks on state employee’s email accounts and any other form of communication.
KU said it has addressed all of the above items with the exception of removing gender identifying pronouns from email signature blocks belonging to state employees. The university reported that both university employees and student employees are required to follow this directive by the July 31 deadline.
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“Each Jayhawk contributes to the community of learning and growth that is KU. Our community is founded on the respect and support we each provide to others. If you know of a student, staff, or faculty member who needs assistance as a result of this new requirement, please consider submitting a Support and Care referral.
At KU, we elevate the university and each other through our mission of education, research and service. Thank you for your dedication to the university and the people we serve.”
Joint letter excerpt from Chancellor Douglas A. Girod, Chief Academic Officer/Provost & Executive Vice Chancellor for KU-Lawrence & Edwards Barbara A. Bichelmeyer and Chief Health Sciences Officer & Executive Vice Chancellor for KU Medical Center Steve Stites.
Matt Keith with the Kansas Board of Regents told 27 News the Kansas Legislature adopted a proviso in the most recent budget bill which contained requirements regarding DEI and state agencies. Keith provided a guidance document issued by the board to state universities on June 18, 2025 which can be found below:
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