War of Words Over U of Florida's Presidential Pick

Stuart R. Bell, former University of Alabama president, was named the University of Florida’s sole finalist for president. UF highlighted his decade-long record at Alabama, including improved rankings and retention, multiple college football championships, and attainment of R-1 status. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signaled support, citing Bell’s success in Tuscaloosa and expressing confidence he would raise UF’s performance in Gainesville. Opposition has focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. A prior UF presidential cycle ended when the Florida Board of Governors rejected Santa Ono over concerns tied to DEI. The new controversy centers on Bell’s role at Alabama, where he oversaw creation of a DEI office in 2018 and led efforts that increased enrollment of Black and Latino students.

"What the hiring announcement did not mention is that as Alabama president, Bell oversaw the creation of a DEI office in 2018. He also launched efforts to recruit a more diverse student body, which resulted in significant increases in the enrollment of Black and Latino students. While such recruiting efforts have historically been lauded, the anti-DEI movement of the past few years has emboldened conservative"

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