DEI Strategies for Higher Education Institutions

This advisory is a guide published by Alston & Bird LLP that discusses the implications of the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling against race-conscious admissions policies, particularly focusing on the Students for Fair Admissions (SFFA) case. The document outlines how colleges and universities can navigate the challenges posed by this ruling while still promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) on their campuses. It details the recommendations provided by the Departments of Justice and Education for institutions to consider students' backgrounds and experiences in a holistic admissions process. The advisory also highlights innovative approaches taken by some institutions to maintain their DEI values in light of new restrictions. Furthermore, it presents five invitations for colleges to lead with clarity of mission, affirm a sense of belonging, invest in student experiences, evaluate student success initiatives, and champion well-being, emphasizing the importance of creating supportive campus environments amidst evolving legal landscapes.