Despite the Supreme Court’s recent decision to strike down race-conscious admissions policies, American colleges and universities still have avenues to recruit and retain diverse student populations, according to Catherine Lhamon, assistant secretary in the Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights.
Speaking at the Center for American Progress, Lhamon emphasized that institutions can employ various strategies for admitting, supporting, and graduating students that are distinct from the challenged admissions practices.
She clarified that colleges can consider how an applicant’s race has influenced their individual experiences and work to ensure a welcoming and inclusive campus environment.
Navigating post supreme court diversity efforts
The Supreme Court’s ruling does not prohibit the collection of student demographic data, but it must not factor into admissions decisions.
The Office for Civil Rights recently released guidance on recruiting diverse classes and complying with the court’s decision, with further guidance expected next month.
Lhamon sees many opportunities for institutions that are willing to explore alternative approaches to promoting diversity.
She also highlighted that school-sponsored groups or programs focusing on race can remain lawful as long as they are open to all students, offering an opportunity for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to thrive.
Despite the uncertainty stemming from the Supreme Court’s decision, Lhamon urged colleges to embrace the chance to reconsider their approaches to achieving diversity in admissions, retention, and graduation.
This new phase for the Office for Civil Rights comes at a time when the agency is receiving a record number of discrimination complaints in both K-12 and higher education.
While the increase in complaints is notable, Lhamon expressed satisfaction that people have confidence in government intervention to address their concerns.
However, the agency faces challenges, including handling the surge in complaints with fewer staff members than in previous years.
