University of Virginia Ends DEI Programs in DOJ Settlement Ending Civil Rights Probes

The University of Virginia (UVA) has reached an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to end race-based admissions, hiring practices, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives as part of resolving multiple civil rights investigations. Under the settlement, UVA will comply with federal civil rights laws, submitting quarterly data and certifications of compliance through 2028, with investigations paused during this period and potentially closed if the university meets all terms. The agreement ensures UVA maintains academic freedom while committing to reforms that prohibit DEI programs deemed unlawful racial discrimination by the DOJ. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon praised the agreement for restoring equal opportunity and fairness and warned other universities to comply with federal civil rights laws without exception. This deal marks the first time a state university has settled with the DOJ under President Trump’s administration’s efforts to pressure universities over diversity policies and pro-Palestinian protests, following previous settlements with Columbia and Brown universities. UVA’s interim president Paul Mahoney emphasized the agreement as the best way forward, with no monetary penalty involved, and noted the university's ongoing work to demonstrate compliance.