CUNY mandates Title VI training for all full-time faculty and staff starting this fall

New York City’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in higher education took a significant step forward during the recent Finance/Higher Education/Gov Ops' FY26 Executive Budget Hearing. The meeting highlighted the introduction of mandatory Title VI training for all full-time faculty and staff across the City University of New York (CUNY) system, set to begin in the upcoming fall semester.

This initiative aims to ensure that all personnel, not just those directly involved in investigations and complaints, are well-versed in Title VI regulations, which prohibit discrimination based on race, color, and national origin in programs receiving federal assistance. The training will be mandatory, reflecting a broader commitment to fostering an inclusive environment within CUNY.

Currently, training has been provided to specific groups, including HR directors and public safety personnel. However, the new requirement will expand this training to all faculty and support staff, emphasizing the importance of a unified approach to understanding and addressing discrimination.

Additionally, discussions at the hearing touched on the establishment of a dedicated Title VI coordinator to oversee these training efforts and ensure consistency across the university system. This role is part of a broader strategy to centralize and enhance the management of Title VI compliance, as recommended in the Libman Report.

As CUNY moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on creating a more equitable educational environment for all students and staff, reinforcing the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion. The implementation of mandatory training and the potential hiring of a Title VI coordinator are expected to have lasting positive impacts on the community.