Boston University addresses drop in Black student enrollment

Boston University has reported a significant decline in Black student enrollment for the class of 2028, dropping from 9% to 3%. This decrease follows the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling that eliminated the use of affirmative action in college admissions, which has had a profound impact on diversity in higher education. Despite the number of Black applicants remaining stable compared to the previous year, admissions officers were prohibited from considering race in their evaluations due to the ruling. University President Melissa Gilliam expressed disappointment over the enrollment figures, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a diverse student body. She noted that while the incoming class includes many Pell Grant-eligible and first-generation students, the drop in Black enrollment is concerning. The university is committed to ensuring that its classes reflect a variety of backgrounds and experiences. In response to this situation, Boston University is establishing a task force aimed at developing strategies to enhance diversity in future classes. This initiative will focus on improving outreach programs during the summer to attract a broader range of applicants and enhancing financial aid opportunities for underrepresented students. The decline in Black enrollment is not unique to Boston University; other institutions in Massachusetts, including Harvard University and MIT, have also reported similar trends following the Supreme Court's decision. The university's proactive measures aim to address these challenges and foster a more inclusive educational environment.