Supreme Court Decision re: the role of race in admissions
July 10, 2023
Dear Colleagues,
Despite the Supreme Court’s recent ruling striking down the use of race in college admissions, the Office of Undergraduate Studies remains committed to diversity. We will continue to work tirelessly to provide opportunities, broaden access, and enhance the lives of all students.
As the university digests the court’s opinion, I am all the more grateful that we came together during our annual diversity and inclusion retreat this spring to consider proactively how such a decision might impact our work and our mission. Ultimately, our priorities remain unchanged: to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and has a strong sense of belonging.
The university’s leadership has affirmed our shared commitment to fostering a diverse campus culture where all students are welcome and supported.
In a letter signed by all the vice presidents and deans, including myself, President Darryll J. Pines and Senior Vice President and Provost Jennifer King Rice wrote: “At a time when students who have historically faced the greatest barriers to accessing higher education are being told that the admission process may become more challenging than ever, we have a clear, loud and true message: We will remain a national leader by encouraging and supporting students of all backgrounds as they apply, enroll and graduate from the University of Maryland. The educational value of campus diversity is one we will not sacrifice.”
We are dedicated to fearlessly working to support and enhance a university community in which we continue to take pride.
Sincerely,
William A. Cohen
Associate Provost and Dean for Undergraduate Studies