To the University Community,

Today the U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments in two cases involving the University of North Carolina and Harvard that could have significant consequences for all of higher education, as well as American society.

At stake is the ability of universities to recruit a diverse and dynamic student body through holistic admissions processes. We value diverse learning environments that help students sharpen their critical thinking and analytical skills, prepare students to succeed in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world, break down stereotypes and reduce bias, and enable UConn to fulfill its role in opening doors for students of all backgrounds.

While this practice has been upheld repeatedly by the Court over the last 44 years, there is a chance that as early as next year the landscape of college admissions could look very different. Regardless of the outcome of these cases, I assure you that UConn’s commitment to creating and sustaining a diverse student body and workforce will remain unchanged.

Please read a commentary I recently published in the Connecticut Mirror to learn more about the details of that commitment, how we are putting it into practice, and the background of these Supreme Court cases.

For a deeper dive into these cases, the General Counsel’s office at UConn has published a summary on its website.

As a public university in a nation that grows more diverse by the day, having a community that reflects the world we live in is a non-negotiable value for UConn. I know that together we can meet any challenge we encounter, united by the shared vision of a scholarly community and by pride in this great University.

Sincerely,

Radenka Maric

UConn President