A Belmont University spokesman told The Tennessee Star on Tuesday that the law firm, Holtzman Vogel, was commissioned by the university to conduct a review after internal documents and secretly recorded video seemed to depict an effort to continue pushing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) while avoiding federal scrutiny.
According to the university, Holtzman Vogel began a compliance review on July 22, and the investigation remains ongoing. The spokesman was unable to provide an estimate for when the review would conclude.
“While we make every effort to ensure compliance and continue to maintain our belief that Belmont complies with all applicable laws, we take seriously the concerns that have been raised,” a spokesman stated. “With this in mind, we brought in an external partner, Holtzman Vogel, to initiate an independent compliance review.”
The university said the review would identify “potential issues, especially in areas where state/federal policies have recently changed,” then address such issues “thoroughly and responsibly,” while allowing the institution to remain in the Trump administration’s good graces and continue to receive federal aid.
“We remain committed to our core Christian identity and providing the highest quality educational experience for our students,” stated the spokesman.
President Donald Trump signed executive orders in January that prohibit sending federal tax money to schools that maintain DEI programs.
The university’s confirmation of an internal review comes after U.S. Representative Andy Ogles (R-TN-05) urged Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon to launch a formal investigation into Belmont’s activities, and questioned whether the university’s alleged shielding of illegal immigrant students violated a new Tennessee law against human smuggling.
Belmont’s law firm, though nationally recognized, is a notable newcomer to Tennessee. Its Tennessee expansion was launched in April by local partner Brandon Smith, who previously served as the chief of staff to Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti.
A press release announcing Holtzman Vogel’s expansion into Nashville noted that the firm specializes in political law, regulatory law, and litigation.
Holtzman Vogel notably secured a victory for conservatives concerned about election integrity last year, when two provisions in Arizona’s Elections Procedures Manual were ruled unconstitutional as the result of a lawsuit brought by the firm.
– – –
Tom Pappert is the lead reporter for The Tennessee Star, and also reports for The Pennsylvania Daily Star and The Arizona Sun Times. Follow Tom on X/Twitter. Email tips to [email protected].
Photo “Belmont University Campus” by Belmont University.
