President Biden Takes Action to Promote Diversity and Equity in Higher Education

Today, a landmark decision by the Supreme Court threatens the progress made in fostering diverse and inclusive environments within our colleges and universities. Despite this setback, the Biden-Harris Administration remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold the principles of racial equity and civil rights, ensuring that educational opportunities are expanded for all Americans.

In response to the Court’s ruling, President Biden urges colleges and universities across the nation to embrace this moment as an opportunity to enhance access to education for everyone. The strength of our nation lies in the diversity of its people, and it is imperative that our educational institutions reflect this richness. However, while talent knows no bounds, equitable opportunities remain elusive.

President Biden calls upon colleges and universities to consider the adversities that applicants have overcome in their selection processes. These adversities may include:

• Financial circumstances of the student or their family.
• The environment in which the student was raised and educated.
• Personal experiences of hardship or discrimination, particularly racial discrimination.

By acknowledging and valuing resilience and determination in the face of challenges, colleges and universities can ensure a fairer and more inclusive admissions process.

The Biden-Harris Administration is swiftly taking action to support colleges and universities in their mission to provide pathways to success for all students. This includes:

• Providing clear guidance on lawful admissions practices and additional support programs for underserved communities within 45 days, as colleges prepare for the upcoming application cycle.
• Convening a National Summit on Educational Opportunity next month to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders and develop resources to expand access to education.
• Producing a report by September that highlights effective strategies for increasing diversity and opportunity, including the consideration of adversity in admissions.
• Enhancing transparency in college admissions and enrollment practices by collecting and publishing data on trends and demographics.
• Assisting states in leveraging data to improve access to education for underserved communities through targeted recruitment and financial aid initiatives.

These efforts build upon the Administration’s broader initiatives to make higher education more accessible and equitable, including increasing Pell Grants, prioritizing college completion, and supporting Minority-Serving Institutions. Additionally, reforms to the student loan system aim to alleviate the burden of debt for borrowers and ensure that loan forgiveness programs are effectively implemented.

The Biden-Harris Administration remains committed to advancing equity and opportunity in education, recognizing that an inclusive and diverse higher education system is essential for the prosperity of our nation.