Thursday, March 13, 2025

The University of Iowa will close the Division of Access, Opportunity, and Diversity (DAOD) on March 27, following direction from the Iowa Board of Regents. This action will ensure the university is in compliance with state and federal laws as well as recent changes to accreditation requirements across numerous disciplines.

Units in DAOD that continue to be required by state and federal law will be reassigned:

  • The Office of Civil Rights Compliance (OCRC) will now report to the associate vice president for administrative affairs in the Office of the President. This realignment will enable OCRC to maintain essential functions while identifying efficiencies through collaboration with UI Human Resources.
  • TRIO Student Support Services and the TRIO Upward Bound program will move into the University College within the Office of the Provost.

Functions not required by state or federal law will be eliminated or reviewed. 

  • The training department in the Office of Access and Support will close March 27. 
  • The university will review and adjust student support programs to ensure compliance with state law as they transition to University College.

As a result of DAOD’s closure, three employees will be reassigned and one position will be eliminated, resulting in a furlough. Since last spring, the university has eliminated 12 full-time positions to comply with Iowa Board of Regents directives and state law.   

Despite these organizational changes, the UI community will continue to have access to a range of important resources. Students and employees seeking services can contact:

Also, faculty, staff, students, and visitors who have questions or concerns regarding ADA compliance, Title IX, sexual misconduct, and/or employment issues should continue to contact the Office of Civil Rights Compliance (OCRC).