Statement on Affirmative Action Ruling

  A Message from President Maureen O'Connor   Dear PAU Community,   The news today that the United States Supreme Court issued an opinion that race should not be a factor in college and university admissions is extremely disappointing. While we expected this ruling and have taken steps internally to address its impact, we will not be deterred in our effort to ensure Palo Alto University remains a diverse and fully inclusive university.    As an institution committed to the mental health of all, training a behavioral health workforce that represents the communities it serves is among our highest priorities. We have a commitment and obligation to attract individuals of every background to meet the needs of those in our communities.   Colleges and universities and the institutions that support them are sharing their voices on this fundamentally flawed decision today. The American Psychological Association (APA) filed an amicus brief in the cases considered by the Court highlighting the overwhelming evidence for the educational and health benefits of studying in a diverse institution and issued this statement today. I served on a working group of Presidents of California private non-profit universities considering these matters, and today, we collectively affirm our resolve to educate and train students from historically underserved communities (see the statement from the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities (AICCU)).   Additional information will be shared as we learn more about the impact of today’s Supreme Court ruling. As we review the decision and comply with legal mandates, we remain steadfast in our commitment to our inclusive excellence framework and to equity and access in higher education.   Sincerely,   Maureen O'Connor President Palo Alto University