Diverse Issues in Higher Education: Ace Study - Racial Equity Gaps Still Plague Higher Ed

Diverse Issues in Higher Education featured UMD College of Education Professor Dr. Sharon L. Fries-Britt and Associate Professor Dr. Julie Park in a recent article about the lack of diversity in higher education at every level. The article summarized a meeting at the National Press Club for the release of “Race and Ethnicity in Higher Education: A Status Report.” Meeting attendees included a multicultural audience of college administrators, faculty, students, policymakers, thought leaders, funders and other stakeholders.

The report examines more than 200 indicators, looking at who gains access to a variety of educational environments and experiences, and how these trajectories and their outcomes differ by race and ethnicity.

In the article, Dr. Fries-Britt is quoted as stating “We’ve lost ground. I feel a sense of sorrow for all of us. How bold and innovative are we going to be? Because this is no longer acceptable.”

Also quoted in the article, Dr. Park left the audience with three key steps that should be taken to combat racial inequities in higher education, “Stop acting like the campus is a race-neutral place. Stop acting like inequality before college ends once students get on campus. And stop supporting spaces that perpetuate or encourage racism.”

Dr. Sharon Fries-Britt is a professor in the Department of Counseling, Higher Education, and Special Education whose research interests include minority students, minority high achievers and underrepresented faculty.

Dr. Julie Park is an associate professor in the Department of Counseling, Higher Education, and Special Education whose research interests include racial diversity in higher education, Asian American college students, affirmative action, college admissions, race and religion.