Staying the Course

February 20, 2025

Dear Campus Community,

In response to a memo received from the U.S. Department of Education on February 14, 2025 declaring federal directives against diversity, equity and inclusion programming, Chaffey College remains unequivocally committed to equity and empowering our diverse student body to excel through a quality educational experience. 

The DOE’s memo, known as the “Dear Colleague” letter, was addressed to all public schools, colleges and universities, and threatened to withhold federal funds to educational institutions engaging in any kind of diversity-related programming and events.

Currently, many leaders in higher education across the country are grappling with how to interpret and respond to the new directives in the message aimed at ending anti-discrimination and equitable practices in academic settings. Furthermore, many policy makers are questioning the legality of such directives.

Let us reassure you, at Chaffey College, we will remain on course to upholding our institutional values by maintaining our current programs and practices.

There is no tolerance for any kind of discrimination at Chaffey College. All students, faculty and staff have been and will continue to be welcome to participate in campus diversity-related programs and events now and in the future.

At Chaffey College, it has long been our vision and practice to improve lives through education by celebrating and embracing diversity, culture, identities, and promoting an equitable environment for our student population to succeed.

Our mission continues.

Sincerely,

Henry D. Shannon, Ph.D.
Superintendent/President

Lisa Bailey
Associate Superintendent of Business Services and Economic Development

Michael McClellan, Ed.D.
Interim Associate Superintendent of Instruction and Institutional Effectiveness

Alisha Rosas
Associate Superintendent of Student Services and Strategic Communications

Troy Ament
Associate Superintendent of Administrative Services and Emergency Operations