NSHE Responds to White House Policy on Race-Based Admissions
As the White House plans on encouraging higher education institutions to adopt race-blind admissions standards, Nevada System of Higher Education Chancellor Thom Reilly noted that Nevada’s public higher education institutions operate under an open access for general admission policy.
“We are a state that has open access for general admission to our public higher education institutions. If you meet the minimal requirements you are accepted into our institutions,” Reilly said. “But one of our main goals is to increase access and graduation rates among all populations, including historically underserved minority groups.”
Reilly added, “As a system we take satisfaction in who we include, not who we exclude. We believe in an inclusiveness mission with broad commitment to access and excellence and that higher education is a pathway to social mobility.”
The Nevada System of Higher Education takes pride in its diverse student population, including at UNLV which is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as tied for first place as the most diverse university in the nation.
Across NSHE’s seven degree-conferring institutions more than half of the students enrolled identify themselves as being from a diverse background, which have historically been underserved populations in higher education.
Nevada Board of Regents Chair Kevin J. Page added that Nevada’s economic success is dependent on increased participation in post-secondary education and closing the achievement gap among underserved populations.
“One of our main goals is to create a more inclusive, welcoming environment for our students, which includes encouraging students of all races and cultural backgrounds to pursue a degree or certificate in higher education that will enhance their skills, create better opportunities for themselves and their families, and provide a well-trained workforce for Nevada’s growing economy,” Page said.
