U.S. Department of Justice investigates William & Mary over scholarship discrimination

The U.S. Department of Justice has launched an investigation into the College of William & Mary to determine if the institution has violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The probe focuses on whether the university’s scholarship and student benefit programs use racial criteria that constitute illegal discrimination.

Specific programs under scrutiny include the W&M Scholars program, which provides full in-state tuition to first-year undergraduates and grants priority to those with an “interest in diverse people and perspectives.” Additionally, the DOJ is examining the Martha L. Muguira Fellowship, a need-based graduate program that prioritizes Latina women, as well as certain programs within the law school that reportedly favor African American students.

Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet K. Dhillon stated that awarding opportunities based on skin color is illegal and contradicts the “color-blind Constitution.” The College of William & Mary issued a statement noting its commitment to maintaining a non-discriminatory learning environment and complying with all state and federal laws, though it declined to comment on the ongoing legal matter.