University of Virginia President Resigns Amid Pressure Over DEI Practices

The president of the University of Virginia, James Ryan, announced his resignation on Friday amid pressure from conservative critics and the Trump administration over the school’s diversity, equity, and inclusion practices. Ryan had led the school since 2018.

The departure of Ryan marks a significant development in the Trump administration’s efforts to reshape higher education, particularly at public universities. The focus has shifted to DEI policies rather than alleged tolerance of antisemitism.

Ryan faced criticism for not complying with federal orders to eliminate DEI policies, leading to his removal being pushed for by the Justice Department. In a statement, Ryan cited pressure from the Trump administration as a reason for his resignation.

The Justice Department declined to comment on Ryan’s resignation. The move has been criticized by the American Council on Education, with concerns raised about the administration’s approach to higher education.

Virginia’s Democratic senators expressed outrage over the demand for Ryan’s resignation, calling it a mistake that harms the state’s future. The Trump administration has been targeting DEI programs in schools and universities, with some institutions making changes in response.

The University of Virginia became a focal point of controversy over its DEI initiatives, leading to the closure of the DEI office and the end of diversity policies in various areas. The move was celebrated by Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

James Ryan, who had been leading the University of Virginia since 2018, previously served as the dean of Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education. The Trump administration has primarily targeted elite institutions like Harvard in its efforts to overhaul higher education.

According to the source: AP News.