With the passage of SB 1 into law, Ket State's faculty will face new challenges in education our students in a way consistent with the mission of values of Kent State. KSUFA is committed to helping faculty navigate those challenges and to being a space where all faculty are heard, cared and advocated for.
While the searchable syllabus requirement will not go into effect until AY 26/27, various other provisions of the law will go into effect on or about June 26, 2025. Guidance is required from the Chancellor before the requirements of some elements of the law will become clear. Other provisions will no doubt be challenged through the courts. We will try to keep you informed as our understanding of the law changes over time.
Recently, the Ohio Department of Higher Education posted some information on its website about how the Chancellor is interpreting SB 1. The FAQ has specific questions about different aspects of the bill including three student evaluation questions listed in the "Faculty Evaluation" section. Many of the implementation dates are at the end of the calendar year.
In the meantime, there are several important things to keep in mind:
- Nothing that you currently teach will become illegal to teach once the law takes effect. However, we do understand that teaching subjects that might be deemed "controversial beliefs or policies" under the law will become significantly more challenging.
- KSUFA will defend your academic freedom and keep pressure on the University to do the same.
- As an independent organization, KSUFA's ability to promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is not curtailed by this legislation. We are committed to being a vocal advocate for and providing support to minoritized faculty and faculty who teach in areas targeted by the bill.
The links below contain more detailed information and advice to faculty concerning various elements of the law. (Disclaimer: we at KSUFA are not lawyers and none of this information is intended as legal advice.) We will be revising this information as our understanding of the law changes and as we develop new strategies for navigating the challenges of SB 1.
Promoting Intellectual Diversity While Preserving Academic Freedom
The Searchable Syllabus Requirement and How to Protect Yourself and Your Colleagues [coming soon]
Student Evaluations and Annual Performance Reviews [coming soon]
KSUFA's Diversity Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Advocacy [coming soon]
If you are interested in working with us to develop new strategies or have suggestions for how to revise any of our current materials, please contact KSUFA (
