Many institutions of higher learning aim to promote greater racial diversity to harness learning benefits and foster a sense of inclusion. Nevertheless, the institutional pursuit of racial diversity is difficult to benchmark. The current constitutional boundary limits the use of race to promote the diversity in college admissions to a…

Justice Powell's leading opinion in the Bakke case stressed educational diversity over state responsibility. It is suggested that, even where diversification fails as a goal, the desire to overcome the effects of past discrimination may still avail. (Author/LBH)

The roles and options open in the continuing effort to increase minority participation in higher education and the professions are discussed. Actions of colleges and universities in admissions are addressed, along with the efforts of state and federal government programs, professional associations, and educational researchers. (Author/LBH)