i9 Investigation: Alumni raise concerns as Univ. of Iowa reviews Gender, Women’s and Sexuality Studies program

IOWA CITY, Iowa (KCRG) - Alumni of the University of Iowa are raising concerns over the future of the university’s Gender, Women’s, and Sexuality Studies program, saying they’ve learned it could be eliminated as part of a broader academic review.

TV9 first learned of the potential change from a recent Ph.D. graduate who said more than 120 alumni have signed an open letter urging university leaders and the Iowa Board of Regents to reconsider what they describe as the pending elimination of the major.

The university has not formally announced a closure. However, TV9 obtained a copy of an email sent to students in the major that references “proposed” closures.

In that email, the interim chair of the department wrote in part, “If you are currently declared in this major, you will be able to complete your degree. We are committed to supporting you through graduation.”

In their open letter, alumni argue eliminating the program would undermine the university’s legacy. They note Iowa was the first public university in the country to admit women on an equal basis with men and among the first to recognize and fund an LGBTQ student organization.

University officials confirmed some programs are under review following a directive from the Board of Regents to evaluate low-enrollment majors as part of a broader workforce alignment initiative.

In a statement to TV9, the university said in part, “Last year, then-Board of Regents president Sherry Bates directed regent universities to review all academic programs… The Workforce Alignment Report recommended further review of low enrollment programs.”

The university also said, “Any proposed changes must be approved by the Iowa Board of Regents… The program shall not be terminated until after the last student has completed the requirements of the program.”

University officials added that courses attracting strong student interest could remain available for minors or for general education requirements, and that faculty with joint appointments may continue teaching in other departments.

The Board of Regents is expected to discuss academic program reviews at its upcoming meeting. Alumni who signed the letter say they plan to voice their concerns directly to regents.