Harvard University Sees Decline in Black Freshman Enrollment Post-Affirmative Action Ruling

The recent decline in the number of Black students in Harvard University’s freshman class has sparked discussions about the impact of the Supreme Court ruling that struck down affirmative action in higher education. With some universities reporting significant swings in the numbers of students of color, the future of student diversity is uncertain.

Harvard’s data showed a 4% drop in the number of Black students in the freshman class, while Latino students saw a 2% increase and Asian-American numbers remained the same. The university’s dean of admissions and financial aid, William Fitzsimmons, emphasized their commitment to promoting diversity while following the law.

For students of color, the decline in their numbers can have a significant impact on the campus environment. Jeannie Park, from the Coalition for a Diverse Harvard, called for changes in admissions practices to address the issue. Richard Kahlenberg, from the Progressive Policy Institute, questioned how Harvard achieved racial diversity legally.

The enrollment changes at Harvard reflect what has been seen at other colleges, with some experiencing sharper declines in the number of Black students. The end of affirmative action, changes in standardized test requirements, and issues with financial aid forms have all played a role in shaping the makeup of freshman classes.

As universities navigate the post-affirmative action landscape, the future of student diversity remains uncertain. It is clear that colleges will need to adapt their admissions practices to ensure that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to thrive and make a difference on campus and beyond.