University of Alabama System to close Diversity, Equity and Inclusion offices

The University of Alabama System is closing each of its Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion departments in accordance with federal law, and Alabama Act 2024-34 (formerly SB-129), which imposes limits on "divisive concepts." The latter was passed and signed by Gov. Kay Ivey on March 20.

Each of the system's three campuses — Tuscaloosa, Birmingham and Huntsville — has until Oct. 1 to effect changeovers.

More: University of Alabama students return to Tuscaloosa: What to know

In Tuscaloosa, a newly established Division of Opportunities, Connections and Success is being led by Christine Taylor, a UA vice-president with a background in change management, program development, marketing, recruitment and process improvement. Taylor led the former DEI department.

“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, in a written release.

“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.”

The new division's primary goals:

• Increasing access to higher education through heightened academic support and services for Alabama students and families with lower college attendance rates.

• Fostering campuswide initiatives on free speech and civil discourse.

• And preparing 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.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham has created an Office of Access and Engagement, led by Paulette Dilworth, who had led UAB's now-closed Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. The University of Alabama in Huntsville plans to similarly focus on student success, while closing its DEI office, complying with state and federal laws.

In a written release, UA President Stuart R. Bell said its new division aligns with the Strategic Plan.

“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.”

No one at UA has lost a job, contrasting with other similar changes, such as at the University of Florida, which has cut all DEI positions to comply with the Sunshine State's laws, and cut DEI-focused contracts with external vendors.

Reach Mark Hughes Cobb at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: University of Alabama closes DEI offices to comply with new laws