Providence College Merges DEI and Ministry Offices

Restructuring raises concerns about LGBTQ+ and non-Catholic student support

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:36pm

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A dimly lit, empty college administrative office space with warm, diagonal sunlight streaming through the windows, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation about organizational changes.The reorganization of Providence College's DEI office into the Office of Mission & Ministry raises questions about the balance between diversity initiatives and the college's Catholic identity.Providence Today

Providence College has reorganized its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) office into the Office of Mission & Ministry, a move that has raised concerns among some faculty members about how the college will continue to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ and non-Catholic students.

Why it matters

The reorganization reflects a broader trend seen at other colleges across the country, where DEI efforts are being folded into or replaced by more faith-based initiatives. This shift raises questions about the prioritization of diversity, equity, and inclusion on college campuses.

The details

According to a report by Globe Rhode Island reporter Christopher Gavin, some faculty members have expressed concerns about how the restructuring could impact support for LGBTQ+ and non-Catholic students at Providence College. The college has stated that the reorganization is intended to better align its DEI efforts with its Catholic mission and identity.

  • Providence College recently restructured its DEI office into the Office of Mission & Ministry.

The players

Christopher Gavin

A reporter for Globe Rhode Island who covered the story and spoke with faculty members at Providence College.

Providence College

A private, Catholic college located in Providence, Rhode Island that has reorganized its DEI office into the Office of Mission & Ministry.

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What they’re saying

“Some of the faculty members Gavin spoke with shared concerns about how the reorganization could affect how the college meets LGBTQ+ and non-Catholic students.”

— Christopher Gavin, Reporter

The takeaway

The reorganization at Providence College reflects a broader trend of colleges prioritizing faith-based initiatives over dedicated diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. This shift raises concerns about the continued support and inclusion of LGBTQ+ and non-Catholic students on college campuses.