The Justice Department has initiated an investigation into the College of William and Mary to assess whether certain scholarships and student benefits at the Virginia-based public institution might involve unlawful race-based criteria. This comes amid an intensified focus by the Trump administration on educational institutions nationwide.
The Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice announced that it would conduct a compliance review, suggesting that the university could be in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance.
“Providing scholarships or opportunities to students based on skin color is illegal and contradicts the Constitution’s guarantees,” stated Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon.
Dhillon added, “We will investigate if scholarships and student benefits at William and Mary favor specific racial applicants.” She pointed out that while faculty might not disregard race-based benefits entirely, they are often presented in a way that obscures their racial implications.
The “W&M Scholars” program, aimed at first-year undergraduates, offers a scholarship covering at least the full in-state tuition and fees.
Although this scholarship isn’t restricted to a specific race, the Justice Department noted that applicants demonstrating an “interest in diverse people and perspectives” will be given “best consideration.” William & Mary’s website indicates that this is one of several factors, with academic talent and socioeconomic background also taken into account.
Moreover, the Martha L. Mughira Fellowships for graduate students in the W&M Graduate School of Education prioritize financial assistance for Hispanic or Latina women in need, according to the Justice Department. The Graduate School also runs the Holmes Scholars Program, supporting future education leaders of color with mentorship and professional development resources.
The Department of Justice also pointed to the Lemon Law Scholars Program at the W&M Law School, which reportedly offers full scholarships for HBCU graduates, although the university claims to award at least five scholarships to such graduates admitted to the J.D. program.
In addition to financial aid, recipients will enjoy networking opportunities, personalized academic support, and access to exclusive events featuring W&M Law faculty and alumni.
The law school promotes “Reaching Back Scholarships,” which prioritize HBCU graduates and those contributing to diversity at the institution, according to the Justice Department’s findings.
Several programs at the college were created to address the historical impacts of slavery and racism. The Justice Department has requested specific documents and information from William & Mary by September 8 as part of the review process. While the department aims to achieve compliance informally, it hinted that formal action could follow, potentially leading to the revocation of federal financial aid if necessary.
In reaction to the investigation, William & Mary reaffirmed its commitment to a nondiscriminatory educational environment, stating it adheres to all state and federal laws.
The Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department has yet to draw any conclusions regarding the investigation.
This inquiry is part of a broader initiative by the Trump administration, targeting educational institutions for various issues such as race-based admissions, diversity programs, and allegations of anti-Semitism on campuses.
