In recent years, the landscape of college admissions has been undergoing a significant transformation. One of the most notable shifts is the decline in the acceptance of legacy students—those whose family members, usually parents, attended the institution. This change, in some instances, has been prompted by legislative measures to limit or eliminate legacy admissions altogether. Most recently California’s SB AB1780 swiftly progressing to Governor Newsom’s desk and certainly impacting admissions at Stanford University and USC. At both of these private institutions, roughly 14% of their admitted students are legacy admissions (SFist). But there is good news- the elimination signals a significant departure from traditional admissions practices and is reflective of broader societal shifts toward equity and inclusion in higher education.
The Historical Context of Legacy Admissions
Legacy admissions have long been a staple of many prestigious colleges and universities in the United States. The practice emerged as a way to build a sense of community and continuity within institutions, often serving as a reward for alumni loyalty and donations. Legacy students typically enjoyed a considerable advantage in the competitive admissions process, with some estimates suggesting they were up to four times more likely to be admitted than non-legacy applicants (HBCU News).
Reasons for the Decline
Several factors contribute to the decline in legacy admissions:
Equity and Inclusion:
There has been growing criticism that legacy admissions disproportionately benefit white, affluent families, perpetuating inequality. Critics argue that this practice undermines efforts to diversify student bodies and provide equal opportunities to all applicants, regardless of their background (HBCU Buzz).
Legal and Ethical Considerations:
The legal landscape is shifting, with increased scrutiny of admissions practices. For example, the recent Supreme Court rulings on affirmative action have heightened awareness and debate about all forms of preferential treatment in college admissions, including legacy preferences (HBCU News) (HBCU Sports).
Public Pressure and Perception:
There is increasing public pressure on universities to adopt more transparent and fair admissions processes. As societal values shift toward greater inclusivity and diversity, institutions face the risk of reputational damage if they continue to favor legacy applicants.
Source: New York Times
Impact on Higher Education
The decline in legacy admissions is likely to have several profound impacts on higher education. Proponents for the elimination of legacy admissions cite the following potential advantages:
Increased Diversity:
Eliminating legacy preferences can lead to a more diverse student body, as it removes a barrier that has historically favored certain demographic groups. This can enrich the educational experience for all students, fostering a broader range of perspectives and ideas (HBCU Buzz).
Shift in Alumni Relations:
Universities may need to find new ways to engage and incentivize alumni, as the traditional promise of legacy admissions diminishes. This could lead to more innovative approaches to alumni engagement and fundraising.
Changes in Admissions Strategies:
Admissions offices may place greater emphasis on holistic review processes that consider a wider array of student experiences and achievements, rather than familial connections.
Legal and Policy Reforms:
The ongoing debate and potential legal challenges could lead to more standardized regulations governing college admissions practices, ensuring a level playing field for all applicants.
Important Counterpoints to Consider
While it’s true that historically excluded groups have paltry representation in “elite” school admissions - a mere 7% of Ivy League school students identify as Black. (NBC News) It’s important to consider two additional points that don’t render these decisions a win:
Over the past 50 years, the number of Blacks and Latinos have gained hard-earned into these Ivy- and highly-selective universities. Many who have matriculated through these universities, at higher mental and financial expense , have done with the promise that their future generations would have a greater chance to also attend. In the struggle for freedom, we Black folks have always fought difficult battles and triumphed, secure in the knowledge that we do so to make it better and easier for those to come. I sometimes wonder if this is one way to reduce the progress that has been made to even reach that 7%.
As African-Americans, we have our elite universities, colleges and organizations that rely heavily on legacy admissions and selection. With the singular exception of Hampton University, all of the elite HBCUs – Howard, Morehouse, Spelman, and North Carolina A&T and a number of the selective ones – employ legacy admissions. (The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education). At Howard University, for example, 1 in 4 students are legacy admissions.
Conclusion
At first glance, the decline in legacy admissions represents a significant shift toward greater fairness and inclusivity in higher education. Supporters for its elimination hope that universities will more fairly focus on merit and equity is poised to redefine the future of college admissions. However, these changes never happen in a vacuum - HBCUs will not be exempt from securing spaces in its admissions classes for their distinguished and supportive alumni. As these changes unfold, it will be crucial for universities to navigate the evolving landscape thoughtfully, balancing tradition with the imperative for progress.