Statement From Chancellor Lester W. Young, Jr., the Board of Regents, and Commissioner Betty A. Rosa on Supreme Court’s Decision Regarding Affirmative Action

The New York State Education Department (NYSED) and Board of Regents are deeply disappointed in the Supreme Court’s decision on affirmative action and race-conscious admissions policies but will use every means available to ensure the guiding star of our work remains equitable access to higher education for all students. 

NYSED and the Board of Regents launched an initiative to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in schools across New York State, prioritizing the development and strengthening of policies that advance these important principles and practices in our schools and colleges.  

Together with NYSED, New York State’s public and private colleges have a longstanding commitment to address diversity and access for underrepresented and underserved students, including students of color. As a state, we have a commitment to ensure that all voices have a seat at the table. We are encouraged by the continued and renewed fidelity of our colleges to create and maintain diverse and inclusive college campuses. In addition, the Department’s Office of Postsecondary Access, Support, and Success (OPASS) oversees many initiatives that are designed to increase the number of economically disadvantaged and under-represented groups at colleges and universities statewide.

While we expect the recent ruling will create challenges, our commitment to ensuring access and equity for our underserved, underrepresented students is strong and steadfast.