University of Florida eliminates all diversity, equity and inclusion positions due to new state rule

By Rebecca Cohen, NBC

The University of Florida has eliminated all diversity, equity and inclusion positions due to a new state rule that prohibits the addition of such programs, according to an administrative memo from the university.

In addition to slashing all DEI positions, UF has also closed the Office of the Chief Diversity Officer and stopped DEI-focused contracts with external vendors, per the memo, in accordance with Florida Board of Governors regulation 9.016.

The regulation defines DEI as “any program, campus activity, or policy that classifies individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, gender identity, or sexual orientation and promotes differential or preferential treatment of individuals on the basis of such classification.”

The $5 million in funds previously allocated for UF’s DEI initiatives, including salaries and expenditures, will now be placed into a retirement fund for the school’s faculty, according to the memo.

“The University of Florida is — and will always be — unwavering in our commitment to universal human dignity,” the memo said, which was signed by J. Scott Angle, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs; Amy Meyers Hass, vice president and general counsel; and Melissa Curry, vice president for human resources.

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