HOUGHTON — At its meeting this morning, the Michigan Technological University Board of Trustees is expected to eliminate the University’s Diversity Incentive Awards. Initiated in the early 2000s and revised in 2010, Diversity Incentive Awards are scholarships ranging from $1000 to full tuition plus fees for students who are US citizens and members of under-represented groups.

The Trump administration has tied federal funding for colleges and universities to the elimination of diversity programs and initiatives.

The agenda item, VII-F, “Retire Board Policy 9.14 Diversity Incentive Awards,” would eliminate the awards that have provided significant financial assistance for under-represented groups.

The awards provided financial assistance, up to full ride scholarships, for up to a four year period for students pursuing bachelor’s degrees and up to a two year period for students pursuing associate degrees.

On February 7, the University announced the Center for Diversity and Inclusion staff would transition into new roles in the Waino Wahtera Center for Student Success.

In addition to the CDI staff transitioning, the University’s Office of Engagement and Belonging will sunset.

Wayne Gersie, formerly Tech’s Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion is now Vice President for Community Engagement. Gersie was initially hired as Techs inaugural Vice President for diversity and inclusion. He left the university for a period to time, only to return in that position in December of 2023.

In other anticipated action, the Trustees are expected to approve to continue the remaining residence hall housing rates, meal plan rates and apartment and house rental rates for fiscal year 2026.

Today’s meeting begins at 9 a.m. in the Memorial Union Building Ballroom B.

It is open to the public. Read complete coverage of the meeting in Saturday’s Daily Mining Gazette.