Dean's message regarding Supreme Court ruling on race-conscious university admissions

Dear Stanford Engineering community,

Many of you have seen the news regarding the US Supreme Court’s decision to upend the long-established practice of race-conscious admissions as a means of obtaining the educational benefits of a diverse student body. I encourage you to read the message from President Tessier-Lavigne on this decision if you haven’t already.

While I’m not surprised by the ruling, I still find it disappointing. In the School of Engineering — as across all of Stanford — there is a deep and sincere dedication to fostering inclusivity and diversity in our community. In our research and innovation addressing pressing world problems, our mission of educating future engineering leaders, and our culture built on mutual respect and collaboration, diversity in its many dimensions makes our best work possible. 

Our SoE graduate admissions processes have been and will continue to be based on a holistic review of every application and consideration of many factors. All of our Stanford Engineering students belong here. Our Equity and Inclusion Initiatives team in the Office of Student Affairs will continue delivering support and a variety of successful programs, while considering additional activities or outreach in response to the ruling.

Many of you may have questions about the ruling and its implications. As we work with other schools and Stanford’s leadership to process how the ruling affects us, please know that we will provide more information as it becomes available.

Our goal of supporting a thriving diverse community in the School of Engineering is fostered in many ways: through affinity groups and support networks, outreach programs, on-ramping and cohort programs, and a variety of other activities. Some of the details may need to change to abide by the law, but our principles, values, and aspirations remain steadfast.

Sincerely,
Jennifer Widom
Dean of Engineering