The University of Washington recently withdrew a job advertisement for an associate professor position in school psychology after scrutiny arose over its mandatory diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) statement requirement. This decision follows a broader debate regarding the role of DEI pledges in academic hiring and performance evaluations.
Key Takeaways
- University of Washington canceled a job posting due to a mandatory DEI statement.
- A professor stated he would not be hired today under current DEI requirements.
- The university's hiring practices are under review to ensure compliance with laws.
- Federal investigations into race-exclusionary practices include the University of Washington.
Mandatory Diversity Statements Under Scrutiny
The job listing, which sought an associate professor of school psychology, explicitly required applicants to submit a one-page diversity statement. This statement needed to detail the applicant's identity, positionality, experience, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. It also had to align with the American Psychological Association's (APA) Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Framework.
Additionally, candidates were asked to describe how their teaching philosophy would advance the College of Education's commitment to racial equity and social justice. These requirements have sparked debate about their impact on academic freedom and hiring impartiality.
Fact Check
- The canceled job posting required applicants to describe their commitment to racial equity and social justice.
- A University of Washington spokesperson confirmed the cancellation was to prevent ambiguity or misinterpretation regarding compliance with state and federal laws.
Professor Claims He Would Not Be Hired Today
Stuart Reges, a non-tenured teaching professor at the University of Washington's Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science and Engineering, has publicly criticized the university's DEI requirements. He believes that despite his academic achievements, including a Distinguished Teaching Award, he would not be hired under the current strict DEI pledge system.
"You have to say that you have deep knowledge of the DEIs in order to get a high rating on all of this," Reges stated. "Funny thing is, I'm convinced I would not be hired if I applied today. There's just no way, even though I've won the Distinguished Teaching Award here at the university."
Professor Reges highlighted a grading rubric used to assess potential professors. This rubric includes a 'Diversity' section, which ranks applicants from 'Poor' to 'Excellent.' A 'Poor' rating indicates "little evidence of potential to contribute to the UW Diversity Blueprint."
Impact on Faculty and Applications
According to Reges, these requirements have already led to talented faculty leaving the university. They also deter potential applicants, particularly graduate students considering a career in teaching. The perceived pressure to craft statements that conform to specific ideological expectations is a significant concern.
"I've known faculty, very talented faculty who've left because of this kind of pressure and people who won't even apply," Reges explained. "I think a lot of grad students who might've wanted a career in teaching are kind of saying, why bother?"
Broader Context
The debate over DEI statements extends beyond the University of Washington. President Donald Trump's executive order, "Protecting Civil Rights and Merit-Based Opportunity by Ending Illegal DEI," issued in January, criticizes the use of DEI as an excuse for biased employment practices. The order suggests DEI's foundational ideas can foster hostility and authoritarianism.
University Response and Federal Investigations
The University of Washington confirmed the cancellation of the specific job posting. A spokesperson for the university stated, "The College of Education search referenced in a recent local commentator’s blog post was in compliance with these laws, but to prevent any ambiguity or misinterpretation, we are canceling it and providing additional guidance on hiring practices before it is reposted."
The university also confirmed a broader review of hiring practices. This review aims to ensure compliance with state and federal laws. The University of Washington maintains that diversity and access are not in opposition to merit and excellence, and it remains committed to providing access to excellence for all.
Legal Oversight
- In March, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) initiated investigations into several universities.
- These investigations target "race-exclusionary practices in education programs and activities."
- The University of Washington is among the institutions currently under federal investigation.
The spokesperson emphasized that the university's hiring practices adhere to state and federal laws, ensuring race is not a factor in hiring. They also noted that the university has acted proactively when any violation becomes known. This ongoing scrutiny highlights the complex legal and ethical landscape surrounding diversity initiatives in higher education.
