In 2023, Governor Greg Abbott signed into law Senate Bill 17 (SB17) or the “DEI ban” bill. This legislation explicitly banned diversity, equity and inclusion policies in Texas public universities. Diversity, equity and inclusion can be loosely defined as the institutional practice of explicitly promoting historically marginalized groups. Effective Sept. 2025, Texas Woman’s University faced the challenge of complying with state law and keeping the tradition of bridging neutrality gaps on campus.
Almost two years following the passage of SB17, laws similar to the legislation are emerging from the Texas House and Senate. State senator Brent Hagenbuch, who represents parts of Denton, and Sen. Brandon Creighton co-wrote SB37. The bill passed last year, creating a board to review college curricula and degree programs that potentially promote race, gender or ethnic superiority.
SB17 saw the immediate redesign of TWU’s former DEI initiatives. The former DEI office was renamed the Center for Belonging and First-Generation Students. There are other slight changes since SB17 compliance, including warnings of gender discussion on TWU’s online registration system, the integration of the gender studies department with English and Language, and the removal of pronouns from some employee name badges and email signatures.
Publicly, TWU altered its messaging. In 2024, Chancellor Carine Feyten told the Texas Senate subcommittee on Higher Education that the Center for First Generation Students was “race and gender neutral.” As TWU’s spokesperson for policy, Chancellor Feyten’s statements offer insight into the system’s policy priorities. TWU, and other state funded public institutions, face the challenge of recognizing the political climate while simultaneously aligning with state policy. Texas representatives and law have explicitly stated that institutional failure to comply with laws like SB17 face risk of losing state funding.
Also, the University of North Texas’s institutional changes have drawn massive attention statewide. Following the enactment of SB17, the university swiftly removed the DEI office, events, and programs. Programs like Counseling Diverse Students, Social Justice Scholars, and events like Library Pride Week were banned.
Most notably, in 2025 the university removed a pro-Palestine and anti-ICE art exhibit following backlash from Texas legislators. Despite their overwhelming compliance, UNT was investigated earlier this year by the Texas Attorney General following a video of a professor explaining how to curb anti-DEI laws.
Unlike TWU, UNT’s international enrollment decreased by 2,800 students between 2024 and 2025. Despite effects felt throughout Denton campuses, TWU’s diverse population continues to thrive. According to enrollment data, TWU’s international student population has grown after the passing of SB17. From 2023 to 2025, there was an increase of 68 international students, from 211 to 279. TWU is also considered a Hispanic-Serving Institution with undergraduate students making up at least 25% of the population.
Three years since the passing of SB17 and the Texas government continues to place potential DEI practices at the center of its legislative priorities. Within the 89th legislative session alone, there were several bills introduced related to limiting DEI in publicly funded schools. The concentration on DEI in colleges is a largely partisan issue. Republicans like Greg Abbott and Ken Paxton have concentrated on preventing potential left-wing ideology on campuses. With both facing re-election in close races, the upcoming election will determine the policy initiatives affecting Texas universities. Through funding allocation, the Texas legislature can influence degree availability, programs, and scholarships. Currently, Texas has several open seats in the US Senate, Governor, Attorney General and all U.S. representatives.
One of the most effective causes for changes is through voting. The upcoming midterms will determine the policy future of Texas for decades to come. Texas has multiple voting resources online, including your voter registration status. Early voting started October 19. You can find your nearest polling location here. Election day is November 3.
Annalise Soto can be contacted via email at asotoserrano@twu.edu
Photo Courtesy of TWU Stock Collection
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