College Matters from The Chronicle Virginia Is a Battlefield
Nov 12, 2025
Jasper Smith, a staff reporter at The Chronicle of Higher Education specializing in race and higher education controversies, dives into the escalating DEI battles in Virginia. The resignation of UVA's president and the turmoil at George Mason University highlight a political firefight over diversity initiatives. Jasper discusses allegations against GMU, the implications of Gregory Washington's leadership, and how investigations are reshaping faculty sentiments. The emotional fallout on campuses brings to light deep concerns about the future of racial diversity commitments.
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Virginia As A National DEI Flashpoint
- Virginia universities are central battlegrounds in a national backlash against DEI efforts in higher education.
- Federal investigations have targeted public universities' diversity practices and pressured leadership changes.
Federal Influence Reaches Campus Governance
- The fights over DEI reflect a broader effort to reshape admissions, hiring, and university leadership.
- Federal power is now being used to influence who colleges admit, who they hire, and who leads them.
Congressional Report Alleges Quota Practices
- A House Republican report accuses Washington of lying to Congress and implementing race-based hiring goals.
- The report cites administrators and documents alleging quota-like percentage targets and threats of punishment.