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Biden Administration's College Guidance Post Supreme Court's Affirmative Action Ruling
New Guidance for Promoting Diversity in College Admissions
The Biden administration has issued new guidance to colleges on how to achieve a diverse student body following the Supreme Court's ruling that struck down affirmative action. The U.S. Department of Education outlined policies and practices that remain legal for promoting diversity after the court's decision, which deemed the consideration of race in college admissions as a violation of the Equal Protection Clause and the Civil Rights Act.
Clarity and Support for College Leaders
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona emphasized that the resources provided by the Biden-Harris Administration aim to offer clarity and support to college leaders in promoting diversity and expanding educational opportunities. This guidance is seen as an initial step towards addressing the issue.
Shifting Focus in College Admissions
Experts predict that colleges will now place more emphasis on factors such as household income and regional background to diversify their student bodies. The ruling is expected to lead to a reduced reliance on standardized test scores, potentially even eliminating SAT and ACT requirements that have reinforced racial gaps in admissions.
Consideration of Personal Essays
Chief Justice John Roberts highlighted that colleges can still consider personal essays that discuss how race has influenced an applicant's life, including experiences of discrimination or inspiration. However, universities cannot solely rely on these essays or other means that were deemed unlawful by the court.
Alternative Measures of Adversity
The Education Department plans to release a report next month with additional details on how colleges can utilize alternative measures of adversity in admissions decisions. These measures may include financial means, the student's upbringing and high school, as well as personal experiences of hardship, including racial discrimination.
Changes in Admissions Applications
Colleges are expected to incorporate questions related to these alternative measures of adversity into their admissions applications. Higher education expert Mark Kantrowitz suggests that more institutions may also reconsider giving preferential treatment to legacy students, a policy that has faced criticism after the affirmative action ruling.
In conclusion, the Biden administration's new guidance provides colleges with clarity on promoting diversity in the aftermath of the Supreme Court's affirmative action ruling. As colleges adapt their admissions processes, factors like household income, regional background, and personal experiences of adversity are likely to play a more significant role in shaping student bodies.
Implications for New Businesses: Navigating Diversity and Inclusion
The Biden administration's guidance for promoting diversity in college admissions post the Supreme Court's affirmative action ruling offers key insights for new businesses. The shift towards considering alternative measures of adversity emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to diversity and inclusion.
Embracing a Broader Definition of Diversity
The focus on factors such as household income, regional background, and personal experiences of hardship underscores the need for businesses to embrace a broader definition of diversity. This includes not just race, but also socio-economic status, geographical background, and personal experiences.
Adapting Policies and Practices
The ruling and subsequent guidance highlight the need for businesses to adapt their policies and practices to comply with legal requirements while promoting diversity. This could involve reevaluating hiring practices, employee benefits, and company culture.
Building a Diverse and Inclusive Workforce
The guidance serves as a reminder for businesses to prioritize building a diverse and inclusive workforce. This not only fosters a more inclusive environment but can also drive innovation and improve business performance.
In conclusion, the Biden administration's guidance for colleges post the Supreme Court's affirmative action ruling serves as a valuable reference for new businesses. It underscores the importance of embracing a holistic approach to diversity and inclusion, adapting policies and practices, and building a diverse and inclusive workforce.
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