Bert Ellis Responds to Governor Youngkin’s Letter
Bert Ellis released the following statement on Governor Youngkin’s letter:
DEI at the University of Virginia has not been eliminated. Governor Youngkin should reverse his decision so we can hold the university President Jim Ryan accountable, ensure that common sense returns to UVA by ending DEI for good, stopping antisemitism, and reducing costs at the university.
This fight is not for the faint of heart and requires a fighter to ensure that the Governor's and President Trump's agendas are achieved. I never agreed to resign nor would I ever do so.
Words matter, but actions matter even more. Unfortunately, the Governor has been misled by bad actors who don’t actually want to see results.
Here is my plea to the Governor, the UVA community, and the men and women of the Commonwealth of Virginia: this is not the time to surrender to these ideological bullies at UVA. They are in retreat. We must dig in and hold the line. This is our moment to restore common sense and integrity to UVA. If we do not stand firm now, we risk losing everything we have fought for.
UVA can once again be a beacon of excellence, the shining city on the hill, and a model for the nation. That is my mission. I have been steadfast in this fight, and I will remain so—regardless of the Governor’s decision.
Background on Bert
Bert Ellis was appointed to the Board of Visitors by Governor Youngkin in 2022. Ellis graduated from the University of Virginia 50 years ago this spring. He also graduated from the Darden Graduate School of Business. He lived at 13 West Lawn during his time at UVA, and today proudly flies the UVA flag under his American flag at his home.
Bert Ellis started The Jefferson Council to stand up for the ideals of Thomas Jefferson, to rejuvenate the Honor System at UVA, and raise awareness about the absolute insanity taking place at UVA. He was awarded the White Rose from The White Rose Society for his fights against antisemitism at UVA. And he drew attention and ultimately forced the removal of the “F--- UVA” sign posted on a Lawn Door on campus. Most recently, he rallied the BOV members to eliminate DEI at UVA.