DEI Office Closures at Universities Grow After Another State Orders End to ‘Woke Virus’

More universities are shutting down their Diversity, Equity & Inclusion offices in response to state orders challenging these initiatives.

Key Facts:

  • West Virginia University ended its DEI office after Gov. Patrick Morrisey issued an executive order declaring DEI practices unconstitutional.
  • The Mountaineers replaced their DEI office with a new Division of Campus Engagement and Compliance, focusing on ADA and Title IX requirements.
  • Morrisey’s order came just before President Donald Trump signed a similar federal directive.
  • Universities in Michigan and Texas have also moved to dismantle or replace DEI programs.
  • At least six other states—Alabama, Idaho, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, and Utah—have restricted or banned DEI initiatives at public colleges.

The Rest of The Story:

Gov. Morrisey’s order declared that public institutions funded by the state could no longer allocate resources to DEI-related programs or training.

This move prompted West Virginia University to close its existing DEI structure.

University leaders have launched the Division of Campus Engagement and Compliance, emphasizing that it will uphold campus standards and legal obligations under federal and state guidance, including Title IX and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Morrisey described DEI as a “woke virus,” voicing his concern that such programs foster unfair advantages.

He explained that everyone should be treated equally under the law without special benefits for any particular group.

While critics call this step a rollback of efforts to ensure diversity on campuses, supporters argue it promotes a fairer system.

Other universities have taken similar actions.

Michigan stopped collecting or using diversity statements in hiring and promotion.

The nonaccredited University of Austin in Texas announced it would eliminate DEI efforts by 2024.

Officials at these institutions said they plan to focus on free speech and merit-based admissions rather than group identity.

Commentary:

This is a good move by the state of West Virginia.

It closely follows the Trump administration’s approach and helps end discriminatory policies that often do more harm than good.

DEI, in many cases, becomes a tool that fosters resentment and divides Americans.

By getting rid of these offices, universities can create an environment where students and faculty unite under shared goals and standards, rather than separating into identity groups.

We need unity across campuses and across the country.

The Bottom Line:

More state leaders are pushing back against DEI offices, citing constitutional concerns and funding priorities.

Universities that depend on state resources are choosing to comply by dissolving or scaling back these programs.

Whether this trend continues may depend on how campus communities adjust to new regulations and rising debates over fairness and equal opportunity.

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