Ohio’s Controversial Higher Education Overhaul Faces Pushback from Professors
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — A sweeping new law reshaping Ohio’s higher education system is set to take effect at the end of June, sparking fierce opposition from educators who argue it undermines academic freedom and student support.
Senate Bill 1, signed by Governor Mike DeWine on March 28, will eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, ban faculty strikes, and align college curricula with state workforce demands. Supporters say the changes will strengthen Ohio’s economy, but critics call it government overreach.
The Battle Over Senate Bill 1
At Youngstown State University (YSU), professors are leading a charge to repeal the law. Dr. Cryshanna Jackson Leftwich, a 17-year veteran at YSU, is among those spearheading a petition to put the issue before voters in November.
“We needed 1,000 initial signatures—we got 5,000,” Jackson Leftwich said. “Now, if approved, we’ll need 250,000 signatures from at least 44 counties to get this on the ballot.”
The bill’s author, State Senator Jerry Cirino (R-18th District), argues the reforms are necessary to keep Ohio competitive.
“If we don’t make these changes, our institutions won’t produce graduates that attract businesses,” Cirino said. He criticized faculty strikes as disruptive, accusing educators of using students as “pawns” in labor disputes.
But opponents say the law strips away critical resources.
“They’re cutting funding for training that helps students with disabilities, minorities, and immigrants,” Jackson Leftwich said. “Calling DEI ‘divisive’ ignores the real challenges these students face.”
What’s Next?
The law takes effect in late June, with state funding tied to compliance. Meanwhile, Jackson Leftwich and fellow educators are racing against the clock to gather signatures for their repeal effort.
“It’s a long shot, but people are fired up,” she said. “This fight isn’t over.”
— Reported by Nexio News
