Gregg Haddad

The chairs of the General Assembly's Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee, State Senator Derek Slap (D-West Hartford) and State Representative Gregg Haddad (D-Mansfield) are organizing an informational forum, to be held in September, focused on the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision on race-conscious admission programs at colleges and universities. The Supreme Court's ruling prohibits colleges and universities from considering race during the admissions process, a practice already banned in nine states.

“As the House Chair of the Higher Education Committee. I am deeply concerned about the Supreme Court’s ruling that prohibits limited race-conscious admission policies," said Representative Haddad. "This decision puts efforts to promote diversity and equal opportunity at risk across the nation and here in Connecticut. In the end, the decision will likely make it harder for good students who face adversity in their lives to get into the best schools. In light of this ruling, our committee will hold a forum to fully understand and assess the impact of this ruling on educational access and fairness. We remain committed to fostering inclusive environments that embrace the richness of our diverse society and ensuring fairness in admissions processes.”

"In states which already prohibit race-conscious college admissions, we have seen a significant impact on the makeup of the student body," said Senator Slap. "It is incumbent on policymakers in Connecticut to learn what the court decision will mean for campuses in Connecticut. I look forward to hearing from stakeholders and assessing what action, if any, we should consider next legislative session."

“The ruling by the Supreme Court poses a threat to students and overall diversity at schools," said Speaker of the House Matt Ritter (D-Hartford). "A true college experience depends on a diverse student body – diversity is the lifeblood of quality education. This forum will help us determine the best course of action to ensure fair and equitable access to higher education institutions in Connecticut.”

Representatives from private and public colleges and universities in Connecticut will be invited to the informational forum. In addition, the committee chairs will reach out to experts in higher education and community stakeholders.

This event will take place at the Legislative Office Building with virtual access available via the Connecticut Network if available. A date for this forum will be announced in the coming weeks.