New Ohio Law is a “Betrayal” for Student-Athletes and Campus Community
Student-athletes at Ohio’s public universities are feeling the direct impact of a new state law that has forced the closure of diversity centers and left many feeling like their campus communities have been erased.
A new law in Ohio, Senate Bill 1 (S.B. 1), went into effect two months ago, bringing a wave of changes to public universities. The law, which bans diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, has hit students hard, especially those who relied on these centers for a sense of community. For student-athletes, who often balance a demanding schedule, these on-campus resources can be a lifeline.
The Loss of a Safe Space
At Ohio University, senior Audrey Ansel, a former student-employee, described the closure of the Division of Diversity and Inclusion as a “grieving process.” This division included the Pride Center, the Women’s Center, and the Multicultural Center—spaces that were a hub for students and the broader community.
Ansel said the Pride Center was a major reason she chose Ohio University. “It feels like a betrayal,” she said, reflecting on the closure. For a student-athlete, choosing a school is about finding a place that supports you both on and off the field. The loss of these resources can make a campus feel less welcoming and supportive.
Similarly, Chloe Ripoli, a sophomore at Kent State University, chose her school in part because of the LGBTQ+ Living-Learning Community, which has now been disbanded due to the new law. Ripoli said, “I no longer have access to that safe space.”
A Threat to Community
Student-athletes thrive on community and a sense of belonging. The relationships you build with your teammates and coaches are critical, but so are the connections you make with the broader campus community. These diversity centers were often the first place for students to find a supportive network outside of their sport.
Nica Delgado, a graduate student at Kent State, said the E. Timothy Moore Student Multicultural Center gave her a community she could “lean on.” With the center’s closure, she feels “fearful for the safety of students to not have that space that is for them.”
The new law creates a more challenging environment for student-athletes and all students seeking an inclusive campus experience. As you navigate your college career, these changes highlight the importance of finding support systems both within your team and within the broader campus community.