I affirm University of California President Janet Napolitano’s statement regarding the Justice Department’s reported review of admissions practices. Like her, I’m troubled that the proposed charge to the Office of Civil Rights may lead to a chilling effect on equitable access to high quality education. It would likewise be deeply troubling if the administration’s actions deepened divisions and exacerbated racial tensions. Higher education has served as a key vehicle to providing upward mobility for all as well as an opportunity for us to learn both about and from our differences and our history. It would be a major step backwards if those opportunities were diminished.

Gary S. May

Chancellor