FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: March 14, 2024
CONTACT: Amy Dowell | Amy@edreformnow.org
ERN CT Applauds Higher Education Committee Vote to End Legacy Preference
March 14, 2024 — Today, the Connecticut General Assembly’s Committee on Higher Education and Employment Advancement voted in favor of S.B. 203, An Act Concerning the Consideration of Familial Relationship During the Admissions Process by an Institution of Higher Education. The bill would ban public and private universities from using legacy preferences in admissions processes, which give an extra weight to applicants who are related to alumni.
In response, Amy Dowell, Executive Director of Education Reform Now CT, released the following statement:
“Legacy preferences allow elite institutions to hoard educational opportunities for students who already have significant advantages. We applaud the members of the Higher Education Committee, and especially Co-Chairs Senator Derek Slap and Representative Greg Haddad, for taking a stand to honor merit in college admissions, and positioning Connecticut to be the first in the nation to end this unfair practice at all institutions. Their vote reflects a commitment to ensuring opportunities and a more level playing field for students of every background to pursue high-quality, meaningful post-secondary experiences.”
Learn more about Connecticut’s use of legacy preferences here.
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About Education Reform Now CT
The state chapter of a national organization and affiliate of DFER CT, Education Reform Now CT is a 501(c)(3) that operates as a think tank and policy advocate, promoting great educational opportunities and achievement for all students by increasing equity, protecting civil rights, and strengthening the social safety net.