University of Wisconsin Approves Controversial Deal Limiting Diversity Roles

The $800m agreement, criticized by the state's governor, freezes new diversity hires through 2026 and restructures existing roles.

The University of Wisconsin has approved a controversial deal with the Republican-controlled state legislature that limits the number of diversity roles in its schools in exchange for staff raises and building projects.
The deal, worth $800m, freezes new diversity hires through 2026 and restructures 43 existing roles.
Regents approved the deal, which has been criticized by the state's governor, Tony Evers, a Democrat, who accused Republicans of holding university funding hostage to push a partisan political agenda.
The agreement also bans the use of diversity statements in student applications and requires the University of Wisconsin to end an affirmative action faculty hiring program and create a position focused on conservative thought.
Despite the controversy, university system president Jay Rothman described the deal as a necessary 'compromise'.