June 29, 2023

For some time, the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing at Emory University has been anticipating the decision of the Supreme Court on the legality of affirmative action in college and university admissions policies.

We join the chorus of voices declaring our deep disappointment in the decision that colleges and universities can no longer use race and ethnicity as explicit factors in admission. We are disappointed because – if patterns from similar state decisions hold – the absence of affirmative action will lead to less diversity in our student population. We have proudly built a diverse student body and are disheartened by the possibility of this progress being thwarted.

This decision will likely have an equally profound impact on patient care across the nation. As the United States becomes increasingly diverse, it is important for nurses to reflect the patients they serve. This ruling undermines efforts to advance health equity. 

Alongside our Emory and nursing school colleagues, we will carefully examine the implications of the ruling and comply with the resulting state and federal laws. But as we do, we will remain committed to preparing nurse leaders who are ready to serve a diverse nation and world – guided by an unwavering commitment to health and well-being for everyone.

Dean Linda McCauley, PhD, RN, FAAN, FRCN