The University of Georgia released a statement in response to the Supreme Court’s ruling on eliminating affirmative action from higher education admissions on Friday morning. In an ArchNews email to students and staff, university officials highlighted the university’s accomplishments and student body which represents a “rich diversity of backgrounds and life experiences.”
“As our nation considers the United States Supreme Court decision, the University of Georgia recommits itself to fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment where each member of our community can freely exchange opinions, learn from those of different backgrounds, and be shaped by the rich array of experiences and viewpoints that promote unity and belonging across our campus,” said the statement.
The university officials’ message stretched beyond the University of Georgia, highlighting the other 26 schools within the University System of Georgia. “Across all…institutions, race or ethnicity is not a determining factor in admissions,” said the statement.
The United States Supreme Court voted 6-3 on Thursday that race can no longer be a factor in private or public college admissions. This now causes universities, especially top higher education institutions, to adjust their future plans on how to continue admitting a diverse student body.
Here is the full statement from UGA:
TO: UGA Faculty and Staff
FROM: Jere W. Morehead, President
S. Jack Hu, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost
Michelle G. Cook, Senior Vice Provost
SUBJECT: Statement on SCOTUS Decision
As the state’s flagship institution of higher learning, the University of Georgia is widely recognized for its world-class learning environment and unwavering commitment to enriching lives and communities near and far. The foundation of our success is our community, one comprised of more than 50,000 exceptional faculty, staff, and students who hold widely divergent viewpoints and hail from a rich diversity of backgrounds and life experiences. This is who we are.
As our nation considers the United States Supreme Court decision, the University of Georgia recommits itself to fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment where each member of our community can freely exchange opinions, learn from those of different backgrounds, and be shaped by the rich array of experiences and viewpoints that promote unity and belonging across our campus. Across all 26 University System of Georgia institutions, race or ethnicity is not a determining factor in admissions.
We are proud of our UGA community and the diverse and extraordinary individuals who comprise it. Working together, we will continue to educate and equip future leaders to boldly shape the future of our state, nation, and world.
