University Official Resigns Following Revelations of Evasion Tactics Against Anti-DEI Laws

FIRST ON FOX: A prominent official at a major university has stepped down after audio surfaced, revealing his candid remarks about circumventing newly enacted anti-diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) laws in Florida. Dr. Haywood Brown, who served as the associate vice president for Academic Affairs at the University of South Florida, also directed his criticism towards key state and federal figures, including Stephen Miller, a White House official.

In a statement to Fox News Digital on Tuesday, a spokesperson for the University of South Florida disclosed that Dr. Brown was placed on administrative leave immediately after the university learned of his comments. Following this action, Brown opted for an immediate resignation.

Unveiling Controversial Comments

During a presentation at Virginia Commonwealth University last month, Dr. Brown elaborated on how he continued to implement DEI policies while avoiding compliance with state and federal anti-discrimination laws. He discussed a recent Supreme Court ruling that restricts the consideration of race in college admissions, framing it as a significant challenge to educational equity.

“I really want to discuss the threat of the anti-woke movement to medical education and training and health equity,” he stated in a video reviewed by Fox News Digital.

Rebranding DEI Initiatives

Dr. Brown explained that despite a change in his official title, his professional activities remained largely unchanged. Previously, he held the title of vice president for Institutional Equity at USF, and he revealed that a DEI office had been rebranded to emphasize cultural enrichment.

“Even though I eliminated my title, I didn’t eliminate my job,” he remarked, emphasizing that the focus on DEI continued under a different guise.

Strategies to Bypass Regulations

According to Brown, the rebranding efforts aimed to ensure compliance while maintaining similar functions. “As long as it works, that’s what we do,” he asserted, referring to the necessity of crafting definitions that align with regulatory standards. He mentioned that his office’s name was changed to healthcare access, a term he argued is universally acceptable.

“Who could argue against that? How do you achieve healthcare excellence? You attain healthcare equity. A competent workforce is essential for meeting these needs,” he explained, revealing the depth of strategizing involved in compliance and operational effectiveness.

Reactions from Political Figures

In 2023, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis enacted a law that prohibits the use of state funds to promote DEI programs within educational institutions. This legislative shift has sparked significant debate within the academic community and beyond.

The State University System of Florida defines DEI as a framework that categorizes individuals based on race, gender, and other characteristics, which often leads to preferential treatment based on these classifications.

Critiques of DEI Initiatives

In his presentation, Brown insisted that members of the health community understand the complexities they face, sometimes requiring them to disregard directives from higher authorities. He also expressed concerns regarding the implications of political critiques from figures like Stephen Miller, whom he publicly challenged.

“Well, Stephen Miller has already tried to attack the University of South Florida,” Brown noted, distancing USF from Miller’s political views and background.

A Broader Debate on DEI

Critics of DEI policies have voiced alarm regarding Brown’s comments, stating they highlight alarming trends in medical education. Kristina Rasmussen, executive director of Do No Harm, emphasized the role of organizations in exposing practices that undermine healthcare integrity.

“Woke DEI ideology is invasive at our university medical schools. The remarks made by Dr. Haywood Brown at Virginia Commonwealth University should raise alarm bells for state legislators and anyone concerned about the integrity of medicine,” she stated. “Do No Harm will continue to shed light on administrators harming our healthcare system.”

Will Hild, executive director of Consumers’ Research, echoed these sentiments. He criticized attempts by educational institutions to promote DEI, perceiving it as a misdirection that compromises patient care.

Institutional Scrutiny Amidst Controversy

Dr. Brown’s resignation comes amid a backdrop of shifting sentiment regarding DEI principles in educational and professional spheres. The University of South Florida expressed disappointment regarding Brown’s statements and reaffirmed its commitment to conducting thorough reviews of its policies.

“The University of South Florida is disappointed and troubled by the statements of Dr. Haywood Brown, who is set to retire from USF on July 1,” the institution stated. “USF is committed to following all state and federal guidance, and any implication otherwise by Dr. Brown is untrue. The university is currently reviewing this matter.”

Looking Forward in a Polarized Environment

The unfolding situation at the University of South Florida reflects a broader national conversation around the implications of DEI policies and the tension between educational practices and emerging legislative frameworks. With heated debates ongoing about the appropriateness and impact of DEI initiatives, the future of these programs remains uncertain.

The resignations, criticisms, and legal challenges arising from this controversy underscore the complex landscape that educational institutions navigate in a politically charged climate. As stakeholders from various perspectives continue to weigh in, the implications of one individual’s views may resonate far beyond a singular institution, shaping future discussions on equity and inclusion across the country.

Fox News Digital reached out to Dr. Brown for comment but did not receive a response.