The Trump administration initiated a federal civil rights investigation into Florida State University (FSU) concerning 32 scholarships, accused of racial and gender-based discrimination, as per a Department of Education (DOE) letter. The investigation seeks to determine if FSU violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and Title IX by discriminating based on race, color, national origin, or sex.
Background of the Investigation
The Equal Protection Project (EPP) filed a complaint in July 2025, focusing on 32 FSU scholarships. The DOE’s letter mentions these programs and notes FSU’s obligation to comply with federal civil rights laws due to its receipt of federal financial assistance. EPP’s founder, William Jacobson, also a Cornell Law professor, highlights that FSU’s number of discriminatory scholarships is among the highest he has observed, despite Florida’s political stance against such practices.
“Florida State, surprisingly, has one of the largest contingencies of discriminatory scholarships we’ve seen anywhere,” Jacobson noted.
The complaint divides these programs into sections: 14 allegedly discriminate based on race, color, or national origin, 13 based on sex, and five consider both factors.
FSU’s Response to Allegations
FSU contests the allegations, stating all students can apply for and obtain the scholarships. The university emphasizes funds come from private donations, not institutional finances, and assures merit-based evaluation for applicants. The debate centers on distinguishing between donor preferences and official eligibility criteria.
Among programs discussed is the Crockett Family Fund for Excellence, where the donor preferred African American or Black recipients, though anyone could apply. Jacobson argues that FSU can’t deflect discrimination allegations by citing donor preferences.
“They try to couch this in terms of offloading the blame onto the donor,” Jacobson remarked.
The Legal and Institutional Implications
The DOE Office for Civil Rights clarifies that starting the investigation doesn’t imply any conclusion about FSU violating laws. It will independently gather and assess evidence from relevant parties. Jacobson stresses that the formal initiation of this investigation is noteworthy.
“It’s a preliminary step, but a very large preliminary step,” Jacobson added.
The EPP’s complaint alleges violations of federal laws and Florida’s legal standards. It requests reforms in discriminatory practices, not the cessation of scholarships. The group also appeals to the state governor and attorney general for further scrutiny.
Call for Further Action
Jacobson emphasizes equity over discontinuation, advocating for equal opportunity in scholarship access. The governor’s office and the attorney general have not yet commented on the investigation.