'Cuse Conversations

In June, the Supreme Court decided to undo decades of judicial precedent by reversing rulings that allowed race-conscious admissions programs, preventing colleges like Syracuse University from considering race as one of many factors in deciding which qualified applicants are admitted. As the University’s vice president for diversity and inclusion, Mary Grace Almandrez was paying close attention to the rulings. While Almandrez was deeply disappointed by the rulings, she pointed to the University’s long track record of fostering an environment where all students feel welcomed and supported as proof that Syracuse University will not waver in its commitment to DEIA issues. Almandrez discusses the rulings and their impact on current and prospective students, shares how the University remains committed to being a national leader in DEIA efforts, and highlights what the campus community can expect from the inaugural D.E.I.A. Symposium on Oct. 3.