UW-Madison Dissolves DEI Division After State Deal

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is dissolving its Division of Diversity, Equity, and Educational Achievement (DDEEA) and redistributing its programs and staff to other administrative units. Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin stated that diversity remains a core value and assured continued support for key student programs, scholarships, and cultural centers. The change follows political pressure, a state audit scrutinizing DEI spending, and an agreement between the UW Board of Regents and Republican legislators to freeze DEI hiring in exchange for state funding. Fewer than ten non-student-facing positions are being eliminated, with most staff and programs reassigned. These actions come amid broader debates about the role and funding of DEI initiatives in higher education. Student and community reactions have been mixed, with concerns about the potential impact on campus inclusion and support for underrepresented groups.