Skin color, one of the most conspicuous physical traits, encompasses complex social and cultural meanings and value judgments that can influence individuals' lived experiences and social wellbeing in a profound way. In this article, the authors provide a brief overview of how skin color diversity evolved, its corresponding biological and sociocultural aspects, and how culturally constructed ideologies and perceptions of skin color may influence social interactions. They illustrate the importance of examining historical fallacies as a means to better understand the ramifications of skin color and argue that cultivating a clearer picture of issues underlying meanings of skin color in higher education will help to dispel misconceptions and prepare students and society to thrive in an increasingly diverse environment.