The University of Florida eliminated all roles due to a new state rule restricting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, according to an administrative memo.
In conformity with Florida Board of Governors policy 9.016, UF has reduced all DEI positions, closed the Office of the Chief Diversity Officer, and discontinued DEI-focused contracts with external vendors, according to the memo.
The statute 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.”
The document adds that UF's faculty retirement fund will receive $5 million in DEI salary and expenditures.
“The University of Florida is — and will always be — unwavering in our commitment to universal human dignity,” the memo signed by provost and senior vice president for academic affairs J. Scott Angle, vice president and general counsel Amy Meyers Hass, and vice president for human resources Melissa Curry. “As we educate students by thoughtfully engaging a wide range of ideas and views, we will continue to foster a community of trust and respect for every Gator Nation member,” the memo said. “The University of Florida is elite because of our incredible faculty who teach, discover, and serve.”
According to the state memo, “political or social activism”—“any activity organized with a purpose of effecting or preventing change to a government policy, action, or function, or any activity intended to achieve a desired result related to social issues, where the university endorses or promotes a position in communications, advertisements, programs, or campus activities”—cannot be funded.
DeSantis stated, “I'm glad that Florida was the first state to eliminate DEI and I hope more states follow suit.” Congressional Black Caucus Chairman Steven Horsford said the decision “is far out of step with the standards and values expected of a public institution of higher education,” adding that “intolerance is toxic,” contradicting DeSantis’ assertion that DEI is “toxic.
The UF message promises laid-off academics “standard twelve weeks of pay.” It encouraged staff to apply for other university positions.
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