In the wake of the recent Supreme Court ruling striking down affirmative action as a factor in college admissions, the issue of diversity on campuses has come under scrutiny. However, for American International College (AIC), this ruling will not shake the institution’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities.
Hubert Benitez, DDS, PhD, President of AIC, addressed the Supreme Court’s decision in a statement, emphasizing the enduring significance of diversity and inclusion in higher education:
“I have always believed that diversity and inclusion are fundamental to higher education. Despite this ruling, I remain optimistic that institutions will uphold these principles. The Supreme Court’s decision will have minimal impact on AIC, as the College has always operated based on core values that prioritize access, opportunity, and diversity. Given our student demographic, diversity naturally thrives at AIC, and we must continue to serve this diverse population. Our mission is to educate the region’s next generation of a diverse workforce. It is essential for institutions of higher education to work collectively to foster a sense of community and belonging while addressing the needs of the communities we serve. Particularly in these times, I am grateful for the existence of institutions like AIC in Western Massachusetts.”
Learn more about the College’s reaction to the SUPCO ruling in this news coverage:
President Benitez has also announced his alignment with the administration of Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, as noted in a joint statement condemning the decision and affirming the unwavering commitment to the state’s equity mission. To access the complete message from the Governor’s office, click the link below:
While acknowledging the impact of the ruling, Dr. Benitez expressed his optimism that institutions will continue to prioritize diversity, ensuring that access and opportunity are not compromised. AIC, in particular, stands firm in its dedication to core values that emphasize equal access, opportunity, and diversity. The College has a long-standing tradition of embracing students from a wide range of backgrounds, and its commitment to nurturing a diverse population remains unwavering.
At AIC, diversity thrives organically due to the unique composition of its student body. Dr. Benitez recognizes the importance of continuing to serve this diverse population, not only for the benefit of the individual students but also to contribute to the creation of a diverse and skilled workforce for the region. The College’s mission is clear—to educate the next generation, regardless of their background, and equip them to excel in an ever-changing world.
In times like these, when societal divisions persist and inclusivity is paramount, institutions like AIC play a crucial role in Western Massachusetts. Dr. Benitez expressed gratitude for the existence of institutions that prioritize diversity and serve as beacons of unity within their communities. He emphasizes the need for higher education institutions to work together to foster a sense of community and belonging while addressing the unique needs of the communities they serve.
As the higher education landscape adapts to new challenges, AIC’s unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion sets a positive example. While the Supreme Court ruling has removed race as a factor in the college admission process, AIC remains steadfast in its dedication to creating an environment that welcomes students from all walks of life. Through their resilience and continued pursuit of inclusivity, institutions like AIC will undoubtedly shape a brighter future for higher education, fostering a truly diverse and empowered generation.
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