RESOLUTION OF THE FACULTY SENATE OF NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY REAFFIRMING THE UNIVERSITY’S COMMITMENT TO ACHIEVING A DIVERSE STUDENT BODY

WHEREAS, North Carolina State University (NC State) is a diverse community of people from different cultures, races, and ethnicities who embody a broad range of ideas, knowledge and views that enhance education and preparation for work in a global economy; and

WHEREAS, the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Fisher v. University of Texas at Austin et. al. affirmed the long-standing legal principle that the educational benefits that flow from a diverse student body is a compelling government interest; and

WHEREAS, diversity enriches the educational experience through the exchange of different ideas, beliefs and perspectives; promotes personal growth and a healthy society by challenging stereotyped preconceptions; enhances cross-cultural understanding; helps students communicate effectively with people of varied backgrounds; and strengthens the NC State community by preparing students to become exemplary citizens and leaders in an increasingly complex pluralistic society;

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that we strongly agree that the educational benefits resulting from a diverse student body is a compelling interest not only to NC State but to the State of North Carolina;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that as a research-extensive land-grant university committed to gaining the educational benefits that flow from a student body of broad racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds, we not only embrace diversity, but believe it is central to the academic mission of this institution; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that in pursuing the diversity we seek, we will continue to make deliberate efforts to admit, enroll, retain, and build a diverse student body that enhances the learning environment and advances NC State’s mission.