University Of Virginia Under Fire For DEI Spending

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis addresses a university convocation at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia

A recent analysis by Open the Books has revealed that the University of Virginia reportedly spends around $20 million annually on diversity, equity, and inclusion personnel. The report indicates that at least 235 employees at UVA received a total of $15 million in salaries and $5 million in benefits in the previous year alone.

Some of the funds allocated to these personnel are utilized for student workshops such as 'I Felt That: Microaggression and Its Impact,' 'That's the Way of the World: Introduction to DEI,' and 'Free Your Mind: Introduction to Implicit Bias.' These initiatives have gained significance in the wake of societal events like the deaths of George Floyd, prompting increased activism and calls for action.

Every school within the university now has an associate dean for diversity and inclusion, reflecting a broader trend in higher education institutions.

However, critics like Chris Ruffo, a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, argue that such diversity and inclusion programs are not academically focused but rather serve to promote left-wing ideological agendas. Ruffo highlighted that some colleges, including the New College of Florida, have abolished their DEI departments, emphasizing a shift away from what they perceive as ideological indoctrination.

235 employees at UVA received $15 million in salaries and $5 million in benefits.

UVA allocates $20 million yearly to DEI personnel.

DEI initiatives like workshops on microaggressions and implicit bias are offered to students.

In response to the report, UVA has refuted the claims of overspending, stating that they have 55 dedicated DEI positions with an annual budget of $5.8 million. The university contends that some employees hold dual roles, serving as deans while also contributing to DEI efforts without additional compensation.

Ruffo criticized UVA's response, accusing the institution of obfuscating the true nature of its DEI programs. He argued that any number of DEI personnel beyond zero is excessive, calling for a reevaluation of the role of such programs in higher education.

As the debate over the role of DEI initiatives in academia continues, stakeholders like Governor Yunkin in Virginia are urged to reassess funding allocations and prioritize academic pursuits aligned with the founding principles of institutions like the University of Virginia.