The University Cutting Jobs While Protecting $880K in DEI Salaries

As Michigan State University cuts jobs to close an $85 million gap, five diversity, equity, and inclusion staffers are paid nearly $880,000, raising hard questions about priorities.

Story Highlights

University leaders announced $85 million in cuts with layoffs and program changes.
A records request shows five diversity, equity, and inclusion staffers earn about $879,195 total.
Trustees approved a new budget to address near-term financial pressures.
Human Resources posted layoff guidance, confirming workforce reductions.

Budget Cuts Collide With Spending Choices

Michigan State University leaders said the school must cut $85 million, merge programs, and reduce staff. The president described the scope and speed of the changes in a public statement. Trustees then passed a budget aimed at near-term pressure, while signaling “disciplined stewardship.” These are real cuts that affect people and families. The contrast fuels debate when any nonessential line item grows or stays protected while frontline employees brace for pink slips.

A Freedom of Information Act release shows five diversity, equity, and inclusion staff at the school make $879,194.81 combined. That total sits next to layoff notices and program reshuffling. Critics ask why a small group commands that much during a crisis. Supporters answer that personnel costs dominate the budget, and these roles serve campus policy goals. The facts show real cuts and real pay for these roles at the same time, which drives the public reaction.

What MSU Confirms About Layoffs and Cost Drivers

Michigan State University’s Human Resources office posted detailed guidance for layoffs, reassignments, and contacts. That confirms reductions are happening, not just planned. The school’s budget office says about two-thirds of operating costs go to salaries, wages, and benefits. That helps explain why job cuts emerge first when leaders need fast savings. It also explains why every personnel expense, including diversity, equity, and inclusion roles, draws closer scrutiny now.

Trustees approved the 2026–2027 operating budget on June 12, 2026. The school said it addresses near-term budget stress while holding to “disciplined financial stewardship.” That vote gives leaders the legal framework to act on staff reductions and program changes. It also documents that pressure has not eased. The board’s action places a duty on every unit to show value for money, and to defend why any open role must remain funded.

State Funding Shock And Campus Debate

On top of internal stress, a state bill could cut more than 60 percent of funding to Michigan State University and the University of Michigan. Reports say each school could lose over $200 million if the plan becomes law. That would turn a tough year into a long-term crisis. With that threat in play, spending on offices seen as ideological will face even sharper pushback from taxpayers and alumni who demand core teaching and research first.

Michigan State University Spends Almost $900,000 on Five DEI Staffershttps://t.co/VMdEYaTham

— PJ Media (@PJMedia_com) July 12, 2026

Supporters of diversity, equity, and inclusion often say these roles are a tiny share of more than 12,000 employees, and that personnel costs are normal in a big university. Critics reply that timing and focus matter. When leaders cut jobs and ask students to pay more, they should also freeze or trim nonessential bureaucracies. The records-backed salary total for five diversity, equity, and inclusion staffers gives families a clear number to weigh against lost positions and student services.