Breaking Barriers: Affirmative Action in Higher Education

Presenter

Allison Hope Turner

Campus

Fitchburg State University

Sponsor

Catherine Buell, Honors Program, Fitchburg State University

Schedule

Session 3, 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board A22, Campus Center Auditorium, Row 2 (A21-A40) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

My research explores how comprehensive public universities in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts responded to the post-Bakke moment, a period following the Supreme Court case involving Allan Bakke and the University of California Medical School. This Supreme Court case highlighted the tension between using race as a factor in admissions to promote diversity, while also prohibiting the use of racial quotas. For example, a 1987 study done by the American National Elections Studies, found a significant divide amongst the public regarding this topic, with 11% of people supporting and 78% advocating for admissions decisions based solely on qualifications. My research investigates the impact of this moment on university admissions politics, particularly regarding affirmative action. 

Through archival research and interviews with academic professionals including Michael Turk, a retired economics professor, this research has provided insights into the implementation of affirmative action in Massachusetts public universities. For example, the research uncovered the inclusion of affirmative action policies in course catalogs starting in the 1982/1983 academic calendars at Fitchburg State University. Additionally, at Fitchburg State University there was an AUC Proposal from September 28, 1989, which advocated for the integration of women’s and minority studies into the curriculum. This reflected an effort to promote diversity in higher education settings. 

This research sheds light on the impact of the post-Bakke moment on higher education in Massachusetts, particularly regarding affirmative action policies. Through archival research and interviews, the student provides insights into the implementation of affirmative action policies in public universities and their implications for minority students' representation, classroom experience, and social mobility opportunities.

Keywords

Laws, Supreme Court Case, Higher Education, Affirmative Action, Admissions

Research Area

Law and Legal Studies

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