The Department of Justice announced an investigation into William & Mary, a public university in Williamsburg, Virginia, concerning potential discrimination based on race in college admissions and institutional programs.
Federal officials are examining whether the university violates Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 through the inclusion of racial criteria in multiple scholarship offerings and other benefit programs. Title VI prohibits colleges and universities that receive federal financial assistance from discriminating based on race, color, or national origin.
Harmeet Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General of Civil Rights, stated in an announcement that awarding scholarships or opportunities based on applicants’ racial backgrounds violates federal law. The DOJ statement indicated the department intends to determine whether William & Mary’s scholarships or other student benefits provide advantages to applicants of particular races.
William & Mary responded to the investigation with a statement indicating the institution is reviewing the DOJ letter and committed to maintaining compliance with state and federal laws. The university emphasized its dedication to maintaining nondiscriminatory learning environments.
The investigation represents the latest in a series of federal inquiries into the role of race-conscious considerations in college admissions, financial aid distribution, and other university programs. The university has until Sept. 8 to provide all documents and materials requested by the Department of Justice as part of the investigation.
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