DEI Offices Closed at Auburn, Mizzou, Iowa State, University of Alabama – Essence

On Monday, Auburn University issued a press release that the college would disband its office of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to comply with the brand new state law. The next day, the University of Missouri at Columbia (Mizzou) disbanded its DEI division. Per week earlier, three campuses within the University of Alabama (UA) system, the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the University of Alabama in Huntsville, announced the closure of their DEI offices. Similarly, Iowa State University (ISU) officially closed its DEI office on July 22.

These higher education institutions are the most recent to succumb to recent anti-DEI laws and a growing backlash from the Republican Party. According to Chronicle of Higher Educationthat tracked public colleges and DEI program changes, 185 college campuses in 25 states across the country have made changes to DEI programs since January 2023.

UA Systems will replace its DEI office with a brand new Division of Opportunity, Connections, and Success that may “promote the success of all members of the UA community, including those who may have challenges accessing and achieving education” Hill reports.

“It is important to note that we will continue to provide resources and support to every member of our academic community because our commitment to the success of every individual remains unwavering,” he said. Stuart BellPresident of the UA.

“Differences, including disagreements, shared in a civil manner, strengthen our campus community” Bell continued. “Our faculty, staff, and students will continue to engage in free speech, exercise academic freedom, and engage in broad-based thought and discussion on the issues that impact our world.”

In Auburn, former DEI office staff will likely be placed in alternative positions, either filling vacancies or recent positions in existing offices. In a press release University said, “We remain steadfast in our commitment to providing exceptional experiences and supporting all students, with a special emphasis on providing access and opportunity… We are dedicated to ensuring that the First Amendment is upheld and that all students, faculty and staff are welcome, valued, respected and engaged.”

ISU spokeswoman Angie Hunt believes the rise diversity can still be achieved even with out a DEI office, saying that “Iowa State has developed recruiting strategies to promote diversity of intellectual and philosophical perspectives among applicants for faculty and staff positions by advertising some positions in publications that attract audiences with diverse intellectual and philosophical backgrounds.”

Mizzou The actions differ from the colleges mentioned above in that their dissolution was preemptive, before any laws were passed. University President Mun Choi says, “We wish to ensure now we have a positive dialogue with [lawmakers] that support our university,” adding, “We consider this offers a sustainable path forward.”

President of Michigan Delta College Michael Gavin said: “I can let you know that we’re seeing students leaving higher education institutions which are getting rid of [DEI] language because they now not feel comfortable.”

What will the longer term bring? WITH on college campuses? If President Trump is elected to a second term and Project 2025 is passed into law, “diversity in higher education, [the plan] appeals should be understood in terms of institutional ethos and amount to more government support for religious and for-profit institutions.” Unfortunately, DEI’s prospects remain bleak if the Democratic Party takes control of the White House, with anti-DEI sentiment remaining high and recent bills being introduced in state legislatures on a regular basis.