UA Closing Division Of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion By Oct.1 To Comply With State Law

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The University of Alabama has announced it will close its Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) by Oct. 1 to comply with state law passed by the legislature earlier this year.

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UA President Stuart R. Bell said that after a review of campus programs prompted by recent state and federal laws, UA will be implementing certain changes across campus but went on to tout the university's commitment to its students and employees.

“It’s important to note we will continue to provide resources and support to every member of our campus community, as our commitment to each individual’s success remains steadfast,” Bell said. “Differences, including differences of opinion, shared with civility, strengthen our campus community. Our faculty, staff and students will continue to engage in free speech, exercise academic freedom, and join in wide-ranging thought and discussion on issues that impact our world.”

The October timetable provided by Bell is due to website updates and other processes that may require time to take effect.

“Our mission has not wavered, and we remain committed to our institutional goals to welcome all, serve all and see all thrive and succeed,” Bell said. “We appreciate The University of Alabama System leadership, including legal and government affairs, and their guidance throughout this process to help ensure our mission of teaching, research and service remains the priority."

Bell went on to say that a newly established Division of Opportunities, Connections and Success will further UA's efforts to promote success for everyone in its community, including those who may face educational access and achievement challenges.

The new division will be led by Christine Taylor — a senior executive with a background in change management, program development, marketing, recruitment and process improvement.

What's more, UA says the new division will operate in compliance with recently passed state legislation and changes to federal law, in addition to aligning with the University’s Strategic Plan.

The three primary initiatives begin with "opportunities," which will aim to increase access to higher education through heightened academic support and services for Alabama students and families with lower college attendance rates.

This is followed by "connections" that have the goal of fostering campus-wide initiatives on free speech and civil discourse.

The final pillar is "success" as the university hopes to prepare students for the global workforce by enhancing skills and competencies sought by employers and by helping students and employees understand and effectively work with individuals from varying backgrounds.

“Acknowledging that different individuals may have different barriers to success in higher education, this division supports opportunities for students across campus, regardless of differences of backgrounds or opinions,” Taylor said. “It will also support programming that engages free speech, wide-ranging thought and discussion, and academic freedom for all with efforts focused on educational purposes and priorities.”

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