SCOTUS, Affirmative Action, and the Future of University Diversity

Changing Higher Ed

This episode delves deep into the challenges of diversifying student bodies in higher education, especially in the wake of SCOTUS decisions on Affirmative Action. Dr. Thomas Parham and Dr. Dilcie Perez, stalwarts from the California State University system, bring their expertise and insights to the table.

Drowning in Diversity Debates

Higher education has always been a battleground of ideologies and policies. The introduction of Affirmative Action intended to level the playing field, but its judicial scrutiny has thrown institutions into a quandary. How does one maintain a diverse student body while abiding by the rules?

For the California State University system, this is more than just a theoretical debate. Prop 209 left its mark, challenging institutions to innovate and find ways to promote diversity without relying on race-based decisions in admissions.

The responsibility isn't just on the institutions. Dr. Parham, referencing the literary greats Frantz Fanon and James Baldwin, emphasizes the role of society in shaping educational experiences. The legacy of generations past is heavy on the present one, which seeks to redefine inclusivity on campuses.

CSU's Symposium: Bridging Aspirations with Realities in Higher Education

The gravity of the situation was felt profoundly during CSU's Juneteenth symposium. As Dr. Perez recounted, the voices of Black students, faculty, and staff highlighted the disconnect between the aspirational goals of institutions and the realities on the ground. The symposium wasn't just an event; it was a call to action.

Yet, the scope of the challenge isn't limited to students alone. Faculty, staff, and every stakeholder in the educational ecosystem play a role in shaping the campus climate. Diversity, as Dr. Parham eloquently puts it, is more than just demographics.

Redefining Success and Inclusion

The intertwined fates of students, faculty, and staff necessitate a holistic approach. Success in one domain invariably affects the other. And this reciprocal relationship is what the CSU aims to strengthen. Their Black Student Success workgroup, although centered on Black student success, is not a siloed initiative. It's a blueprint, a model for broader inclusivity.

At its heart, the approach isn't just about numbers. It's about creating environments where everyone feels they belong, where aspirational visions of institutions align more closely with the reality on the ground.

Innovation in Inclusivity

CSU's strategies are groundbreaking in many ways. From early outreach to partnerships with community-based organizations, the efforts aim to foster lifelong relationships. The goal isn't just to admit students but to support them, ensuring their success inside and outside the classroom.

Dr. Perez's take on the matter is unequivocal. Institutions have a responsibility that goes beyond the classroom walls. And for CSU, that responsibility is being shouldered with conviction and vision.

Three Recommendations for Higher Education Leaders and Boards

1. Institutions need to ensure that their policies and practices truly reflect the diverse voices within their community. Listening sessions, feedback mechanisms, and open forums can offer deep insights.
2. While specific initiatives like the Black Student Success workgroup are essential, institutions must also ensure that these strategies have broader applications. The principles learned from one initiative can be applied to other demographics, ensuring wider success.
3. Success isn't the responsibility of just one stakeholder group. Institutions need to foster collaborations between students, faculty, staff, and external partners. Community-based organizations, alumni, and even businesses have roles to play in shaping the educational experience.

At a Glance

• The landscape of higher education is continually evolving, with policies like Affirmative Action at its forefront.
• The California State University system, grappling with the implications of Prop 209, seeks innovative ways to promote diversity.
• Diverse voices, from students to staff, emphasize the need for genuine inclusivity.
• CSU's initiatives, like the Black Student Success workgroup, offer blueprints for broader change.
• Institutions need to balance aspirational visions with on-ground realities, ensuring that every stakeholder feels they belong.
• Collaborations, both internal and external, are crucial in shaping the future of higher education.

Read the transcript on the website →

About our Guests

Thomas A. Parham

Thomas A. Parham, president of CSU Dominguez Hills since March 2018.

Dilcie Perez

Dilcie Perez is Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic Student Affairs.

About the Host

Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed®, is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy and change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm’s website: https://changinghighered.com/.

#HigherEducation #UniversityDiversity #AffirmativeAction