Inclusive Excellence

We are actively monitoring and evaluating the implications of the Department of Education’s recent Dear Colleague letter. To address its impact on our campus, we are organizing a dedicated town hall to discuss the Department’s position, its potential effects, and how we are supporting our immigrant, international, LGBTQ+, and other historically marginalized communities.

UC Irvine has long operated in compliance with Proposition 209, which prohibits public institutions from considering race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in public employment, education, and contracting. The university conducts regular reviews to confirm compliance and remains committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment through race-neutral outreach, recruitment, and support programs.

Helpful Contacts

For general questions on diversity, equity and inclusion, please contact:

Student groups looking for guidance may reach out to:

  • Dean of Students Office at 949-824-5181

For questions related to legal concerns:

  • Office of Campus Counse at 949-824-9904

UC Irvine Commitment to Inclusive Excellence Town Hall - Summary

March 11, 2025

Presenters:

  • Dyonne Bergeron, vice chancellor for equity, diversity and inclusion
  • Yvette Gullatt, vice president for graduate and undergraduate affairs; vice provost for equity, diversity and inclusion; and chief diversity officer – University of California system 
  • Elda Rosales, staff attorney – UC Immigrant Legal Services Center
  • Willie Banks, vice chancellor for student affairs
  • Jaymi Smith, interim vice provost for graduate education and interim dean of the Graduate Division 
  • Alberto Sandoval, assistant vice chancellor for community and government relations

UC Irvine leaders emphasized continued dedication to inclusive excellence. The town hall aimed to address uncertainty while reinforcing opportunity and access for all:

  • The university will continue to serve the community without bias and uphold equity and opportunity for all.
  • Federal policies and legal challenges impact diversity efforts, but UC is developing new tools to combat discrimination while ensuring compliance.
  • Immigration legal services are available for students, families, and staff.
  • While commencement and official programs will celebrate all, cultural celebrations and resource centers will continue to be open to everyone.
  • The university is monitoring graduate student funding and expanding programs to strengthen the doctoral pipeline.
  • UC Irvine is actively engaging with state and federal legislators to protect funding and institutional priorities.