I am writing today in response to the Supreme Court’s decision invalidating Harvard University and The University of North Carolina’s race-conscious admission policies. I am deeply disappointed in the Court’s ruling. While it will take time to fully comprehend the decision’s impact on higher education and our institution, please know that Simmons University remains deeply committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Just as Simmons was founded for equality nearly 125 years ago, this principle remains at the core of everything we do because of our unwavering belief in education as a means to advance equity.
While the work ahead will be more challenging as a result of today’s decision, we will continue the fight, because we know that we are a stronger, more vibrant community because of the richness of our diversity. The legal landscape, with which we must comply, has changed, but what has not changed is the systematic inequalities that have led us to this point, and which we cannot ignore and will continue to work to address. Today’s decision further elevates the need for Simmons graduates — individuals who leave this institution with the leadership skills and passion to create a more just world. All of you are the everyday leaders who I know will rise to meet this critical moment in time. I remain hopeful and inspired by our community of learners, and I appreciate our collective commitment to this crucial work.