Belmont University Faces Scrutiny Over DEI Practices and Alleged Enrollment of Undocumented Students

Representative Andy Ogles is calling for an investigation into Belmont University following the release of leaked recordings. The recordings purportedly feature a university faculty member admitting that the school has maintained its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, but has altered its public messaging to comply with federal directives.

The undercover recordings also allegedly capture the same official admitting that the school enrolls undocumented immigrants and conceals this information from external entities. Ogles suggests this practice could violate state law. He has stated that Belmont University claims to be a Christian institution, but its administration is incorporating DEI ideology into its curriculum.

Belmont University is one of several institutions facing scrutiny for allegedly attempting to circumvent federal funding repercussions by rebranding DEI programs. An investigation by a parental rights group found that numerous universities still maintain active DEI offices and programs, with many opting to rebrand or reorganize their efforts rather than eliminate them.

Ogles has pointed to Belmont's Office of Hope, Unity and Belonging (HUB) as an example of this rebranding. In the recordings, a university official is quoted as saying that the school has adapted its terminology and language while continuing its DEI work. Following Ogles' complaints, his office reported receiving information from faculty and students confirming the ongoing DEI initiatives.

Belmont University has responded by stating that attempts to portray the school as having a "shadow operation" are inaccurate and that it is in compliance with federal laws. The university president has also maintained that HUB was established to inspire the campus community and is not a DEI office, despite its initial description. The school has not addressed allegations regarding the enrollment of undocumented immigrants.