Uncertain Times & Resources for Support

Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff:  

We are writing today to reaffirm that the strength found in the University of Denver’s community comes from its people and their diversity of thought, identities, backgrounds, and experiences.   

The University of Denver is dedicated to providing ongoing support to every member of our community as we stay true to our values of integrity, respect, andresponsibility. As always, we strive for a Community of Care in which all members of our community feel welcomed, valued, and affirmed. We honor the rich diversity of our community including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexuality, national origin, religion, faith, disability, and socio-economic status. 

We recognize this time of uncertainty and fear that members of our community are experiencing. Executive orders, federal agency action, the vacated 2024 Title IX regulations, and legislative developments are causing members of our community to be concerned about possible impacts to themselves, family, and friends, as well as how DU will approach diversity, equity, inclusion, and compliance efforts considering these changes. In short, our values will not change, and we remain committed to supporting every member of our community. 

DU has and will continue to be guided by our institutional values and policies, in addition to state, federal, and local laws. The Office of Equal Opportunity & Title IX, now led by Lin-Chi Wang, Interim Associate Vice Chancellor of Equal Opportunity and Title IX; the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; the Division of Human Resources and Inclusive Community; the Office of General Counsel; Division of Student Affairs and Inclusive Excellence; and many other offices are partnering to understand the changes as they are being proposed or happening, create resources of support, and help the campus community navigate this time. 

We encourage students, faculty, and staff to use the resources that are available to you.  

• Students: the DUhelp website provides information on various student support resources at DU including identity-based support. Students can share their experiences with the Dean of Students Office  and learn more about support resources. 
• The Office of Equal Opportunity & Title IX (EOIX) will continue to enforce the University’s Discrimination and Harassment policy, which prohibits discrimination and harassment on the bases of protected statuses including sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity. 

• First@DU includes resources for students in the immigrant community. 

• Employees: Lean on your HRIC partner as a trusted resource and source of information.  
• There is also helpful information about diversity resources on the University of Denver website.  

You matter and you are not alone. You are part of a community that values you andwe will continue to provide essential resources and support to help navigate these changes.  

One of the most unique aspects of the DU community is our care and compassion for one another. Your safety and well-being are of the utmost importance.  

Sincerely, 

Jeff Banks
Vice Chancellor, Human Resources & Inclusive Community 

Stu Halsall
Interim Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs & Inclusive Excellence 

Lin-Chi Wang
Interim Associate Vice Chancellor, Equal Opportunity and Title IX 

Christopher Whitt
Vice Chancellor, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion