During finals week, BSU administrators sent an email to students on Tuesday that said over Thanksgiving break, the university closed the Student Equity Center and the Gender Equity Center.
Over 10 years ago, these centers were also known as The Multicultural Affairs Center and The Women's Center before their names were changed. These centers, under various names, have been on the BSU campus for decades.
KTVB obtained a copy of the email sent to students. Doors to the centers were closed Nov. 29, the email said.
"We want to acknowledge that the staff members who have worked in these centers over the last few decades have impacted the lives of thousands of students," administrators wrote in the email.
The email alluded to the university's decision was in anticipation of a resolution passing from Idaho's State Board of Education.
The resolution would restrict diversity, equity and inclusion programs on college campuses. It was first introduced at a Nov. 21 special meeting of the State Board of Education.
"We all have heard the conversations taking place this year across the nation related to diversity, equity and inclusion and higher education," BSU administrators said in the email. "The Idaho State Board of Education has developed resolutions for Idaho universities, and we have provided feedback. We remain steadfast in our commitment to serving all students while seeking to be responsive to our governing board’s expectations."
As a replacement, BSU will open a new Student Connections and Support Center. In the email, they said they've been planning for the new center for several months.
The new center will offer a first-generation program and resources like case management, crisis interventions, and other services.
