DEI at New England College: A Community Message

Dear New England College community,

I am writing to provide an update for your awareness regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at New England College.

In the last two weeks, we have received notifications from our accreditor, NECHE; the New Hampshire Education Commissioner; and a memo from the U.S. Attorney General providing direction related to DEI on campus. Each of these messages addressed similar themes that I’d like to share with you.

In his correspondence to all member institutions, NECHE President Schall shared a June decision by the Commission to suspend application of NECHE standards related to DEI. He explained his rationale behind the decision: First, the Commission continues to navigate evolving policies from the U.S. Department of Education; and second, it is in the process of its regular standards review cycle, with final updates expected at the NECHE meeting this December.

Commissioner (now former) Frank Edelblut’s message to all higher education institutions also focused on issues related to DEI. As you may know, the Governor recently signed into law HB 2 Prohibition on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Public Schools. As a result, any public institution, along with any educational institution that received funds from the state, is required to comply with the following provisions:

• “No public school [as defined by RSA 186:71, II] shall implement, promote, or otherwise engage in any DEI-related initiatives, programs, training, or policies.”
• “No state funds shall be expended to public schools [as defined by RSA 186:71, II] for DEI related activities, including but not limited to implicit bias training, DEI assessments, critical race theory, or race-based hiring, promotion, or contracting preferences.”
• “No public school [as defined by RSA 186:71, II] shall enter into, renew, or amend any contract that includes DEI-related provisions, including requirements for contractors to implement DEI programs, conduct DEI training, or comply with DEI-related reporting obligations.

New England College received just over $400,000 from the state’s UNIQUE Fund for Scholarships this past year. On that basis, I’m advised we are subject to the provisions of HB 2.

The final communication came in the form of a memo dated July 29, 2025, from U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi entitled, “Guidance for recipients of federal funding regarding unlawful discrimination” (see attached). The document itself is described as non-binding but signals what the Justice Department is looking for in terms of standards of nondiscrimination.

So, what does this mean for NEC? First, we are seeking legal guidance to determine exactly what is required of us. Second, I am working with the leadership of other private colleges in New Hampshire to stay informed and, potentially, coordinate our response. Third, I will continue to meet with our colleagues at the New Hampshire Department of Education to advocate for our commitment to inclusiveness, belonging, and support for our students. At the end of the day, if we are required to comply with this new law, we will do so.

Alongside all of this, Dr. Erica Sigauke and our colleagues in Student Affairs have been working since February to reimagine the role and focus of our DEI Office. Dr. Sigauke’s vision for the new Office of Student Empowerment and Leadership (SEL) will continue to support the development of our students and emphasize the importance of belonging for all our students. I believe the new approach (sent by email to you this morning) is thoughtful, impactful, and affirms our commitment to support all students. Thank you, Dr. Sigauke and the Student Affairs team, for your work.

These are extraordinary times in higher education. We remain focused on both the opportunities and responsibilities we hold to our students and community. As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape, I will keep you informed.

Thanks for reading and, as always, please do not hesitate to reach out to me with any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Dr. Wayne F. Lesperance, Jr.
President
New England College