The University of Florida got rid of all of its DEI positions — resulting in 13 full-time positions terminated and 15 administrative appointments ended for faculty members

he University of Florida got rid of all of its DEI positions — resulting in 13 full-time positions terminated and 15 administrative appointments ended for faculty members

On March 1, the University of Florida announced the elimination of all positions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in response to a new regulation from the Florida Board of Governors. This regulation prohibits expenditures related to DEI, defining it as any program, campus activity, or policy that classifies individuals based on race, color, sex, national origin, gender identity, or sexual orientation, and promotes differential treatment.

UF spokesperson Cynthia Roldan confirmed that 13 full-time positions and 15 administrative appointments, which are additional roles taken on by faculty members, were eliminated. The Office of the Chief Diversity Officer was also closed, and all DEI-focused contracts with outside vendors were terminated.

The regulation stipulates that state universities cannot use state or federal funds to support programs or activities that violate specified statutes, advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, or engage in political or social activism. However, independently-funded groups may continue their activities.

The terminated employees will receive 12 weeks of severance pay through UF Human Resources. The approximately $5 million previously allocated for DEI salaries and expenses will be redirected to a faculty recruitment fund managed by the Office of the Provost.