University president at George Mason remains in position amidst school's opposition to federal court cases
George Mason University Faces Federal Investigations Over DEI and Hiring Practices
George Mason University (GMU) is currently under investigation by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) for potential violations of federal anti-discrimination laws in its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts and hiring practices.
The investigations, which began in 2020, focus on allegations of racially motivated hiring practices, allowing antisemitic acts on campus, and discrimination within student programs and scholarships[1][2]. The ED is conducting a civil rights probe into discriminatory hiring and promotion practices, while the DOJ is investigating a Title VI violation related to a hostile environment for Jewish students and faculty[1][2].
GMU President Gregory Washington has maintained that the university has complied with civil rights laws and defended its DEI initiatives[1][2]. In response to the investigations, the university renamed its "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" office to the "Office of Access, Compliance, and Community" in March 2025, asserting no policy changes were needed[1][2].
Despite the ongoing investigations, the GMU Board of Visitors voted to give President Washington a 1.5% pay raise[6]. However, concerns have been raised about the board, which is completely appointed by Republican Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin[7].
Advocates of President Washington expressed concerns that he could face pressure to resign, similar to the pressure that ousted the University of Virginia's president, Jim Ryan, in July[8]. The Board of Visitors has responded by supporting President Washington and retaining his role amid these disputes[4][5].
In a recent meeting, the Board of Visitors discussed ongoing litigation and Freedom of Information Act requests related to the investigations[9]. The meeting's agenda did not disclose any details about the nature of the two federal lawsuits against GMU's DEI efforts and hiring practices.
The Board of Visitors has also made adjustments to some of its diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts[10]. However, the specific changes and their impact on the ongoing investigations remain unclear.
As the investigations continue, GMU and its leadership continue to deny any wrongdoing and maintain that their DEI initiatives are in compliance with federal laws. The university's stance has been seen as significant, as it faces increasing scrutiny over its DEI and hiring practices.
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- As the federal investigations into George Mason University's DEI and hiring practices continue, discussions about political implications are arising, with concerns that the university's leadership may face pressure similar to other educational institutions, such as the University of Virginia.
- Amidst the general news of a university under federal investigation for potential anti-discrimination law violations, the university's initiatives for education and self-development, particularly in the area of diversity, equity, and inclusion, remain a significant focus of scrutiny and debate.
