The University of Wisconsin-Madison is reported to be under federal investigation by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) for alleged violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 through its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts. UW-Madison spokesperson John Lucas denied receiving a complaint.
In an OCR press release, the DOE accused 45 universities, including UW-Madison, of Title VI violations for partnering with The Ph.D. Project, a nonprofit organization that helps doctoral students from underrepresented groups pursue business degrees and aims to diversify the business world. Seven other colleges have also been accused of alleged race-based scholarships and segregation.
Lucas told The Daily Cardinal Friday that the university has yet to be formally notified by the OCR of any complaint related to The Ph.D Project.
“If a complaint is received, the university will cooperate with any investigation,” Lucas said.
UW-Madison is currently under a formal investigation over complaints of antisemitic discrimination and harassment following the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack on Israel.
Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination against individuals on the basis of race, color or national origin. Violation of Title VI can result in loss of federal funding.
U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said the DOE is “working to reorient civil rights enforcement to ensure all students are protected from illegal discrimination.”
The DOE issued a memo on Feb. 14 warning universities that “racially discriminatory” policies, particularly DEI programs, could result in federal funding cuts.
“Discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin is illegal and morally reprehensible,” Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor said in the letter. He said universities “toxically indoctrinated students” through DEI efforts.
President Donald Trump has fought to end DEI over the last two months, threatening to withdraw federal funding if universities don’t comply. He also issued executive orders in January to roll back DEI initiatives within federal agencies.
UW-Madison removed its chief diversity officer in January due to alleged financial concerns. Universities across the country have also ramped up DEI cuts amid pressure from President Trump.
This article was updated at 6:04pm., March 14, 2025, to include UW-Madison’s spokesperson John Lucas’ statement and to clarify denial of complaint.
