The Florida Education Association (FEA) and the United Faculty of Florida (UFF), representing educators, faculty, and graduate assistants statewide, strongly oppose the state’s creation of a politically driven accreditor for public colleges and universities.
Our very own UFF Statewide President, Teresa M. Hodge, Ph.D. has been named the NEA Higher Educator of the Year! This incredibly prestigious honor given by NEA, recognizes one higher educator nationwide for their extraordinary leadership, impact, and unwavering commitment to advancing higher education and union values.
UFF is deeply concerned about Governor Ron DeSantis’ Executive Order 25-44, which mandates the identification and elimination of so-called “inefficiencies” within Florida’s State University System and Florida College System. His recently announced “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) initiative unduly targets our state’s respected colleges and universities with intense scrutiny and unwarranted micromanagement.
The United Faculty of Florida (UFF) unequivocally condemns the recently revealed partnerships between Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and campus police departments within Florida’s State University System.
A Threat to Academic Integrity and Equity. Dismantling the Department of Education will leave public institutions vulnerable to political interference, strip resources from underfunded schools, and exacerbate educational inequities. Without federal oversight, the responsibility for upholding educational standards and protecting students’ rights would be left to state and local authorities, potentially resulting in inconsistent policies that further widen the gap between privileged and marginalized communities.
Join us at an in-person press conference at the Board of Governors meeting this week as we speak out on the negative impact censorship and curriculum laws had have on our higher education institute, our students and our state.
