The following message from Dean Josef Sorett was shared with the Columbia College community:

Dear Columbia College Community,

I reach out to share Columbia University’s statement, which follows below, regarding today’s Supreme Court ruling on Affirmative Action.

I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate Columbia College’s abiding commitment to diversity as an essential source of strength for our community. We remain committed to fostering and sustaining a diverse community of students as a core value central to our mission.

In the months ahead we will keep you updated as we gain a better understanding of the ruling’s implications — and I look forward to joining with you in discussion about what the decision means for the College and the broader University community.

With respect,

Josef Sorett
Dean of Columbia College
Vice President for Undergraduate Education
Professor of Religion & African American and African Diaspora Studies

Columbia University Statement on Affirmative Action Cases:

The Columbia University community represents a wide array of experiences and backgrounds. This diversity is central to our identity -- it reflects the cultural richness of New York City as well as our mission to foster meaningful interactions and prepare students to make a difference in the world.

We are reviewing the Supreme Court’s decision and will refrain from commenting further until we fully understand its implications. As we prepare to comply with the law, our commitment to our values is unwavering. Diversity is a positive force across every dimension of Columbia, and we can and must find a durable and meaningful path to preserve it.