Amherst and Tufts Report Drop in Students of Color
Two prestigious universities, Amherst College and Tufts University, have reported a concerning drop in the enrollment of students of color in recent years. Both institutions have long been known for their commitment to diversity and inclusion, but a recent analysis of enrollment data has revealed a troubling trend.
At Amherst College, the percentage of students of color in the freshman class has decreased from 46% in 2018 to just 39% in 2021. Similarly, Tufts University has seen a drop in the enrollment of students of color, with the percentage of incoming students who identify as Black, Hispanic, Asian, or Native American dropping from 38% in 2019 to 33% in 2021.
The reasons for this decline are not entirely clear, but some have pointed to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on recruitment efforts and the heightened focus on racial justice issues in recent years. The pandemic forced many universities to switch to virtual recruitment events, which may have made it more difficult to reach underrepresented students. Additionally, the racial reckoning that has taken place in the wake of the death of George Floyd and other acts of police violence may have made some students of color hesitant to attend predominantly white institutions.
Both Amherst and Tufts have acknowledged the issue and are taking steps to address it. Amherst College has launched a task force to examine the enrollment data and identify ways to increase diversity on campus. Tufts University has also committed to increasing recruitment efforts and providing more support for students of color once they are enrolled.
It is important for institutions of higher education to prioritize diversity and inclusion in order to create a more equitable and welcoming campus environment. Students of color bring valuable perspectives and experiences to the academic community, and their presence enriches the educational experience for all. Amherst and Tufts must continue to work towards increasing diversity and ensuring that all students feel supported and included on their campuses.
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