University System of Wisconsin Approves $800 Million Funding Deal with Diversity Restrictions
The University of Wisconsin System Board of Trustees has greenlit an $800 million deal that allows for funding of various initiatives incorporating salary increases and projects. This pact involves imposing certain limitations on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
As part of this arrangement, the University System will freeze the hiring of positions dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion for at least two years. Over the course of the subsequent two years, the system will restructure and reinvent around 43 DEI-related positions within this period, as mentioned in the board's meeting minutes.
The fundamental diversity hiring plan for University of Wisconsin-Madison faculty will also be dispensed with, as per the minutes.
Significantly, the move by the Wisconsin State Board of Trustees comes amid a time when DEI programs at universities nationwide are facing budget cuts.
According to reports, over a dozen US states have proposed or adopted legislation aimed at curtailing DEI programs at colleges and universities. Some states, such as North Carolina and South Carolina, have even introduced bills to monitor and cap DEI funding at higher educational institutions. Earlier this year, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill prohibiting public universities and colleges from allocating funds for DEI programs.
Rising scrutiny towards DEI initiatives in academia, particularly from conservative lawmakers, has prompted debate and controversy. They argue that DEI efforts amount to indoctrination, while proponents view them as opportunities to combat inequality by promoting multiculturalism and providing resources for individuals of diverse backgrounds.
Governor Tony Evers of Wisconsin expressed discontent with the committee's decision on Wednesday. "I disagree with today's Board of Regents' decision," said the Democrat governor in a press release. "I am disappointed and frustrated with the outcome, the proposal, and the process that led to this decision." Evers vowed to ensure that those who had championed the cause of diversity, equity, and inclusion during the process were adequately rewarded.
Wisconsin's University of Wisconsin System Chancellor, Jay Rothman, thanked the Board of Regents for their approval while acknowledging that not everyone would be pleased with the outcome. "Given the current circumstances, this is beneficial for our students, our university, and the State of Wisconsin," said Rothman on X-Posting. "Negotiating a compromise can be a challenging process, and I acknowledge that not everyone will be satisfied. This agreement includes important priorities that will benefit our students."
Rothman added that promoting diversity and inclusion remains a core value, but the system is open to adapting certain positions so that they support student engagement and academic success.
On December 15, the agreement between the University of Wisconsin System and the Republican-led state government was rejected in a 9-8 vote during a special session of the Board of Regents.
The agreement foresaw hundreds of millions in tax revenue for salary increases and investments as well as the construction of a new engineering building at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The accord also unveiled an initiative that would afford top-tier high school students in Wisconsin the opportunity to be automatically admitted to the University of Wisconsin System, provided certain conditions were met.
The Speaker of the Wisconsin State Assembly, Robin Vos, explained on Friday that the aim of their faction had always been to abolish bureaucracy and DEI departments while refocusing on priorities such as students' success and achievements. "Our goal has always been to eliminate bureaucracy and DEI departments and focus on what matters most – student success and achievement. After reaching a compromise, we see that goal being addressed," said Vos.
On Wednesday, following the board's vote, University of Wisconsin System Board of Regents member Edmund Manydeeds voiced his approval and support for the decision. "We have now listened to the engagement of the University System, campus representatives, and the Board of Regents – all working towards enhancing and reinventing the spirit of diversity, equity, and inclusion – and it is my responsibility to ensure it happens," said Manydeeds.
Reports by CNN's Leah Asmelash contributed to this story.
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