CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The Department of Justice has closed two of its investigations into the University of Virginia after discussions with interim president Paul Mahoney, the school announced Friday.
One investigation was into the admissions process at the Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy and at the McIntire School of Commerce.
The second investigation was focused on the university’s handing of antisemitism complaints.
“I have been personally engaged in discussions with the department’s officials, and I am happy to say I can report some initial progress,” Mahoney said according to a release from the school. “These investigations were closed based on the information we provided to the department about our policies and actions. We will continue to work hard to resolve the remaining investigations.”
The investigations were at the center of former president Jim Ryan’s decision to resign on June 27. The Trump administration said Ryan and the school failed, on multiple occasions, to provide confirmation that UVA was in compliance with federal laws and legal rulings that included the demand the university dismantle all of its diversity, equity and inclusion programs.
“While political winds may shift around us, the University’s core values, mission and activities remain unchanged,” Mahoney said, according to the UVA release. “This is a sturdy ship that can handle rough weather. I’m grateful to everyone in this community who’s helped me signal stability and continuity through their dedication to teaching, research and patient care.”
Mahoney, a former dean of the law school, was appointed as UVA’s interim president in August. Friday’s board of visitors meeting was his first in that capacity.
