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The decisions made by the Supreme Court in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard (6-2) and Students for Fair Admissions v. UNC-Chapel Hill (6-3) have had a nationwide impact on college admissions. These decisions have placed limitations on the use of race-based affirmative action in the admissions process, sparking discussions about how these schools will adjust their admissions policies.
The contrasting responses from Harvard, an elite private university, and UNC, an elite public university, are intriguing.
Let’s start with Harvard. After the decision, the university issued a statement that read:
People walk through the gate at the Harvard University campus on June 29, 2023 in Cambridge, Massachusetts. (Scott Eisen/Getty Images)
“Today, the Supreme Court delivered its decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. President and Fellows of Harvard College. The Court held that Harvard College’s admissions system does not comply with the principles of equal protection clause embodied in Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. The Court also ruled that colleges and universities may consider an applicant’s discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration, or otherwise. We will certainly comply with the Court’s decision.”
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Harvard’s statement suggests an intent to circumvent the Supreme Court’s clear prohibition on using race, both directly and indirectly, in the admissions process.
Furthermore, Harvard’s president, Lawrence Bacow, emphasizes the importance of “diversity and difference” to academic excellence. However, the court struck down the diversity rationale as inherently discriminatory. It is worth noting that Harvard still maintains legacy admissions, which prefer applicants from specific family backgrounds associated with the university.
Harvard’s response indicates a desire to defy the Supreme Court’s decision, hidden under politically correct language. It is difficult to trust that Harvard will fully adhere to the principle of non-discrimination.
The campus of UNC-Chapel Hill (iStock)
Now, let’s contrast Harvard’s response with that of the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz spoke to The Washington Post, stating that UNC would “follow the Supreme Court’s decision in all respects” and clarified that race would not be a factor in admissions decisions.
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In a letter released on the day of the decision, Guskiewicz acknowledged that the outcome was not what they had hoped for. However, he also expressed his commitment to respecting the Supreme Court’s decision and abiding by its guidance.
The word that stands out is “respect.” UNC has demonstrated true deference to the will of the people and the representatives who made this decision. While Harvard uses the word “comply,” implying reluctance, UNC takes a more humble stance.
On July 27, the UNC Board of Trustees officially implemented Guskiewicz’s vision by passing a resolution that eliminates race, ethnicity, sex, and color as factors in university admissions, including through essays or other means. This resolution aligns the university with the true intentions of the Supreme Court’s decision.
In fact, UNC Board Vice Chair John Preyer openly expressed dissatisfaction with the large amount of public funds spent on a losing case, questioning whether it was the right decision.
UNC understands that 75% of Americans believe that race should not play a role in college admissions. As a publicly funded institution, it is wise for Chapel Hill to finally respect this sentiment.
UNC’s actions will matter more than their words, and it is important for nationwide organizations to monitor whether these universities continue to lower standards to admit preferred groups or minorities. However, their humility and adherence to this decision are commendable and should serve as an example for other colleges and universities.
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In conclusion, the differences in the responses from Harvard and UNC are evident. Harvard attempts to find legal loopholes and complains, while UNC demonstrates obedience to the principles of non-discrimination and embraces the will of the people for a merit-based admissions system and American legal precedent.
Over time, as the detrimental effects of race preferences in admissions become clear, UNC will emerge as a more respected institution compared to Harvard.
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The contrasting responses reflect the attitudes of these universities. Harvard challenges the decision and strives to bypass it, while UNC shows humility and respect for the decision. It is essential to continue monitoring the actions of these institutions to ensure they uphold standards and do not compromise meritocracy by admitting certain preferred groups or minorities. UNC’s approach sets a refreshing example that other colleges and universities would be wise to follow.
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