A Message from the President

Dear NEOMED Community,

I want to take an opportunity to address the concerns raised during the Campus Update on February 24. During the Update, questions were asked about the potential impact of recent federal and state policy changes, and the University’s initial response to the Dear Colleague letter from the United States Department of Education (DOE). I deeply appreciate the thoughtfulness of these questions, as they reflect the challenges we are facing as an institution. These issues affect not only NEOMED, but students and faculty across the nation.

I want to acknowledge how difficult and confusing this time has been. The actions taken in response to these changes may have caused unnecessary disruption, and I deeply regret any frustration and uncertainty it caused for many in our University community. Please know that I hear you, and I understand how unsettling these changes have been for our community, especially our students.

The Dear Colleague letter, which outlines the DOE’s interpretation of federal law, contained unexpected new guidance on the use of race in educational institutions. That guidance mandates that institutions not use race in decisions regarding admissions, scholarships, hiring, financial aid, administrative support or any other areas related to student, academic or campus life. The challenge has been in navigating these new interpretations while continuing to serve our students and maintaining an inclusive and supportive environment. 

Our Office of General Counsel has been actively collaborating with external legal experts since the Dear Colleague letter was issued to help us interpret the DOE guidance and remain in compliance with federal law. Our knowledge at the time guided the University’s initial actions and my response to questions during the Update. Over the past few weeks, NEOMED leadership has carefully considered additional guidance from the DOE in the form of FAQs, consulted with other universities in Ohio and around the country, and the Ohio Office of the Attorney General. As we continue to process information, we reaffirm our commitment to equality, fairness and the well-being of every student. NEOMED will remain a place where all individuals can thrive, innovate and feel welcome as part of our vibrant community.

We recognize the essential role that student clubs play in creating spaces for students to connect, share experiences and advocate for meaningful change within our community.

As a result, unless we receive state or federal guidance to the contrary, all campus organizations that demonstrate an open invitation for all students, faculty and staff to actively participate in their programs, celebrations and events will remain eligible for University support, in accordance with University policies.

NEOMED remains deeply committed to fostering an environment where all students, faculty and staff—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion or socioeconomic background—feel welcomed, valued and supported. We continue to uphold federal constitutional and statutory protections against discrimination, ensuring all students have equal access to educational and campus life opportunities. 

I humbly ask for your patience and understanding as we continue to navigate this challenging landscape. Our commitment to our students, faculty and staff remains unwavering. I deeply value each of you, and I am grateful for your resilience as we face these challenges together.

Very Sincerely,

John Langell, M.D., President, Northeast Ohio Medical University