Virginia universities are scaling back or rebranding their DEI programs

(The Center Square) — As diversity, equity and inclusion programs face scrutiny across the country, Virginia's public universities are reassessing their programs, with some maintaining these initiatives while others scale back or rebrand them.

The Center Square contacted several Virginia public universities regarding their DEI programs and admissions policies. James Madison University confirmed it has an office dedicated to DEI. The university stated that admissions are based on merit, focusing on core academic coursework, including AP and IB classes, and a record of strong grades.

Virginia Commonwealth University responded that it "does not consider race or legacy status as a factor when determining admission to the university." The university emphasized that it does not discriminate in admissions, treatment, employment or access to its programs or activities based on race, gender, political affiliation, disability or other protected categories.

A review of university websites shows varying levels of transparency regarding DEI programs. JMU's DEI search results redirect to the Center for Global Engagement rather than a dedicated office.

George Mason University appears to have removed public references to DEI, while Christopher Newport University's DEI page returns an error message, though a council still exists.

Other universities, including Longwood University, Radford University and the University of Mary Washington, still maintain DEI-related offices, though some have been renamed. Virginia State University's last public update about its DEI office was in 2022.

Financial records show large sums allocated to DEI at some institutions. The University of Virginia's FY2025 proposed budget allocates $7.5 million to its DEI office, with over $5.6 million going to staff salaries. A 2023 report estimated UVA employed over 200 DEI-related employees, costing the university over $20 million.

UVA has officially eliminated its Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion after a unanimous vote by the Board of Visitors, a choice that aligns with the federal executive order "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity." According to a university statement, the move also follows a letter from the U.S. Department of Education regarding compliance for institutions that receive federal funding.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin praised the decision, stating that the Board of Visitors supported merit-based policies and rejected discrimination. "We stand for the universal truth that everyone is created equal, and opportunity is at the heart of Virginians' and Americans' future."

The Center Square will continue to track developments on DEI policies across Virginia public universities.