Statement from President Sánchez on Supreme Court Decisions

July 7, 2023

 

Dear Manhattanville Faculty and Staff:

The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) recently ruled that affirmative action as it relates to college admissions is unconstitutional. Additional rulings this past week ended federal student loan forgiveness and affirmed that a business can refuse to serve someone for any reason including their identity.

It is important to clarify that these recent SCOTUS decisions do not impact Manhattanville’s operations or our commitment to our mission. Furthermore, they do not change our inclusive admissions practices or our firm commitment to creating a diverse and equitable campus community.

I am proud that I have joined an institution that has a long history of embracing equal rights and a deep value for racial and ethnic diversity. As a visionary and thought leader of her time, former Manhattanville president (1931 – 1945) Mother Grace Dammann, RSCJ powerfully affirmed Black students’ rights to receive a college education through her letter, “Principles Versus Prejudices.” As a fearless champion of racial equality, Mother Dammann’s actions remind us why we hold close the values of inclusion, equity, and equality for all and inspire us to passionately and unwaveringly defend these values as part of the Manhattanville mission. 

In fact, Manhattanville’s ranking as the #1 private, non-profit among top performers on social mobility in New York by U.S. News and World Report is a measurable example of our values and how we excel in graduating disadvantaged students, many of whom are the first in their family to go to college. This ranking is a testament to the individualized attention and support students receive from our community and is further proof that we are living our mission to educate ethical and socially responsible leaders in a global community.

While we take great pride in our diverse community, which is greatly enriched by different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, it is important to acknowledge that there are many in our community who are likely feeling unsettled by these decisions. I want to reassure each one of you that we stand together in support of each member of our community, and we staunchly uphold our commitment to promoting inclusivity and advocating for equal rights for all.

These recent SCOTUS rulings will not diminish our dedication to attracting a diverse student body and supporting our LGBTQ+ community and economically disadvantaged students. Manhattanville College remains steadfast in our commitment to ensuring equitable educational opportunities for all who come to our campus, particularly those who have been historically marginalized. Moreover, we will continue to prioritize initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus, such as ongoing training programs, cultural celebrations, and the establishment of support networks for underrepresented communities. This fall, the Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will be hosting multiple opportunities to discuss these issues. Our counselors and advisors are at the ready to assist our families.

Together, we can ensure that Manhattanville College remains a place where individuals from all walks of life can thrive academically, socially, and personally; where lives and learning are enriched by different cultures, races, ethnicities, and ideas.

Thank you for your continued dedication to our mission and for your unwavering commitment to our diverse community and to the Manhattanville way.

 

Sincerely,

Frank Sánchez, PhD

President

Manhattanville College