As a Catholic, Jesuit, and Marymount university, we are steadfast in our commitments to providing an outstanding education in an environment that upholds the dignity of every individual. Amid changing legal and regulatory landscapes, LMU remains dedicated to fostering a community free from discrimination, with clear avenues for accountability and support—an essential and direct expression of our mission and identity. These principles, also enshrined in our strategic plan, seek to assure an environment where all can thrive and contribute equally.
Federal Updates and Impacts
The Department of Education recently issued a Dear Colleague Letter (DCL), which among other things, reinterprets the Supreme Court’s decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard (SFFA).
- The letter purports to expand the decision’s scope far beyond admissions, applying it to scholarships, student programming, curriculum and course content, using race in decisions pertaining to admissions, hiring, promotion, compensation, financial aid, scholarships, prizes, administrative support, discipline, housing, graduation ceremonies, and other aspects of student, academic, campus, and university life..
- The letter does not carry the force of law, nor can it create new legal standards. However, federal agencies have historically relied on such guidance to shape enforcement actions, making it necessary for institutions to consider its potential impact. For example, in the Title IX context, such letters, alongside regulations, have driven changes in universities’ legal obligations.
- This letter purports to extend the SFFA decision in ways not explicitly addressed by the Court, banning race-conscious programs and disregarding long-standing legal frameworks in higher education. While enforcement mechanisms remain unclear, legal challenges are likely before any definitive actions take place.
LMU Response
LMU is not making immediate changes to any legally compliant program or activity.
- The university is closely monitoring developments and engaging with legal experts while taking appropriate steps to ensure compliance with the law.
- We will continue to advocate for policies that align with our mission and Catholic, Jesuit and Marymount values.
Strength in Our Catholic Identity
In a moment marked by disruption and the weight of uncertainty, our distinctive trifold heritage—rooted in the Society of Jesus, the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange—equips us to respond with conviction and purpose.
Our mission-driven identity provides clarity and strength to endure complex and inevitable shifts. In the face of ongoing challenges, we turn to our enduring values to navigate the future, always committed to the dignity of our neighbor.