MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The University of Memphis has officially closed its Office of Multicultural Affairs and begun dismantling its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in compliance with Tennessee’s new anti-DEI law.

As reported by Action News 5 and ABC24, the shutdown comes in response to the state’s Public Chapter 458, also known as the Dismantling DEI Departments Act, signed into law in May. Effective this summer, the law prohibits public institutions from operating offices or offering programs that promote DEI through what lawmakers describe as “discriminatory preference.” Limited exceptions are allowed only to maintain federal funding.

In a campuswide message, University President Bill Hardgrave confirmed that units focused on DEI are being “restructured or eliminated,” and all DEI-related language is being removed from the school’s websites, marketing, and scholarship criteria. Student publications, including The Daily Helmsman, reported that staff cleared out the Office of Multicultural Affairs on Friday, and the office’s website was also taken offline.

In statements to local media, UofM emphasized that while it is complying with the law, its “commitment to student success remains unchanged.”

Students expressed disappointment and concern over the sudden closure. Senior Kristen Tolbert told ABC24 she was shocked to find the office emptied without prior notice. Fellow senior Matthew Dolny called the center a crucial “safe place” and resource hub. “It’s a scary sight,” he said.

The decision is expected to significantly impact student support services as the fall term begins. UofM has a racially diverse student population—about 35% Black and 38% White—and serves a city that is majority Black, according to Data USA and Census.gov.

The closure marks one of the first high-profile examples of a university implementing the state’s new DEI restrictions.