HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — James Madison University is ending their Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, or DEI.

The Board of Visitors introduced and passed the resolution on Friday, April 11.

Four positions will be eliminated, including two that have been vacant. One person is on administrative leave until their term ends on June 30 and the final position will be reassigned to a different area. JMU says other areas, such as the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX, will be moved to another division and those details are forthcoming.

JMU said in their release that funds from this division, in addition to new financial aid money being provided by the university, will be reallocated to support Pell-eligible student scholarships. This initiative will support approximately 75 new students, who have already been accepted into JMU, over their four years at JMU. In total, after four years, this initiative will impact approximately 300 students, create greater access and opportunity and result in the reallocation of approximately $1.8 million toward financial aid for students. Additional funds will also be allocated to the Center for Multicultural Student Services. At President Charlie King’s request, the board was agreeable to ensure this support center remained a valuable space on campus and is available for all students.

JMU added that the action of the board “does not lessen the university’s commitment to creating a diverse campus community. It will remain a priority to recruit and retain the best faculty, staff and students and create a welcoming environment for everyone.”

President King said, “despite the challenges of today’s environment, JMU remains a community that values the richness of all individuals and perspectives, where we support one another, collaborate, and elevate the enriching student experience and high-quality education provided at JMU.”