University of Michigan Case Response

Interim President Lou Anna K. Simon
June 23, 2003

Today’s Supreme Court decisions in the University of Michigan cases hold that student body diversity is a compelling state interest that can justify using race in university admissions.

Throughout our history, Michigan State University has demonstrated a pioneering commitment to the values and benefits of inclusive opportunity that is at the heart of our land grant heritage. The contemporary statement of this commitment is embodied in one of our Guiding Principles, “Diversity within Community,” and in the MSU Promise.

Based on our initial understanding of the Supreme Court decisions in the University of Michigan cases, Michigan State’s approaches to diversity within community and admissions are consistent with the tenor of the Supreme Court decisions. A careful examination of the full text of these historic and complex rulings will be undertaken in the coming days.

Michigan State joins others in the significant efforts and commitment of the University of Michigan in obtaining clarifications in these defining cases that will guide the higher education community in the years to come.

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