Trump Forces University President To Resign
The president of the University of Virginia, James Ryan, is stepping down following pressure from the Trump administration over the university’s controversial diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices.
His resignation, expected by August 15, comes as the Department of Justice investigates whether UVA violated a Trump executive order banning federally funded DEI programs.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division received formal complaints that UVA failed to comply with the order. On April 28, DOJ official Harmeet Dhillon sent a letter to President Ryan warning of noncompliance. A second letter in June said federal patience was “wearing thin.”
Reports suggest the Trump administration is working to hold universities accountable for misusing taxpayer dollars to promote political ideology.
A UVA spokesperson responded, saying, “The University is committed to following all federal laws and continues to cooperate fully with the Department of Justice.”
James Ryan, who previously served as dean of Harvard’s Graduate School of Education, has been a champion of progressive education initiatives. His leadership came under fire as DEI programs across the country face growing scrutiny.
Democrat Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine condemned the DOJ’s actions, accusing the Trump administration of launching a “culture war.” But many conservatives view this as a necessary course correction.
President Trump has made clear that federal funding should support academic excellence—not political activism. Similar investigations have already led Columbia University to scale back DEI operations. Harvard, facing its own scrutiny, is reportedly exploring ways to comply without appearing to retreat.
The UVA shake-up is part of a broader movement by the Trump administration to restore fairness, neutrality, and merit-based values in higher education.
