APLU Statement on Trump Administration’s Reversal of Guidance on Race as a Factor in College Admissions

Washington, DC – Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) President Peter McPherson today released the following statement regarding the Trump administration’s announcement that it will rescind guidance to colleges and universities on the use of race as a factor in admissions decisions.

“We are very disappointed in the Trump administration’s announcement that colleges and universities should no longer use race and ethnicity as one of many background factors when making admissions decisions.

“Public universities have long served a critical role in providing a quality education to students from different backgrounds. They recognize that all students benefit from being on campus with others who bring various life experiences and perspectives. Doing so helps expand students’ viewpoints and prepares them to enter the global workforce where they will need to work with people from many different backgrounds.

“Four decades of case law make clear that race and ethnicity can be one of many factors that universities can consider during the admissions process. Public universities will continue to operate in accordance with the Constitution, state law, and past court rulings to ensure they appropriately foster a diverse campus to the benefit of all.

“As we prepare to celebrate the birth of our nation, it’s critical that we move forward. We must continue to seek ways to ensure all Americans have an opportunity to build a better life for themselves and their families. In doing so, we will build a better United States for all of us.”