The Department of Justice has launched an investigation into the College of William & Mary to assess potential violations of race-based criteria in scholarships and student benefits.
Washington DC, United States Aug 18, 2026 ALN: The Department of Justice (DOJ) initiated an investigation on Monday into the College of William & Mary, focusing on whether certain scholarships and student benefits at the Virginia-based institution incorporate unlawful race-based criteria. This inquiry is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to scrutinize educational institutions nationwide, particularly those that implement affirmative action policies or similar practices designed to promote diversity among their student bodies.
The DOJ's Civil Rights Division announced the compliance review to examine potential violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in programs receiving federal financial assistance. This landmark legislation was enacted to combat racial discrimination and ensure equal opportunities in education, employment, and other areas for all individuals, regardless of their racial or ethnic background.
Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon stated, "Awarding scholarships or offering coveted opportunities to students based on the color of their skin is illegal and offends the guarantees of our color-blind Constitution." She emphasized that the department would investigate whether William & Mary’s scholarships or other benefits favor applicants of specific races. This statement underscores a growing trend in the current administration to challenge affirmative action policies, which aim to address historical inequalities by promoting the inclusion of underrepresented groups in higher education.
The investigation specifically targets the "W&M Scholars" program for first-year undergraduate students, which includes a scholarship covering at least the full cost of in-state tuition and fees. Although this scholarship is not limited to any specific race, the DOJ noted that applicants expressing an "interest in diverse people and perspectives" receive "top consideration." This consideration is listed alongside academic ability and first-generation or limited-income status on the college's website. The language used in the program's criteria raises questions about whether it inadvertently prioritizes certain racial or ethnic groups over others, thus potentially violating federal civil rights laws.
Additionally, the DOJ pointed out that the W&M School of Education's need-based Martha L. Muguira Fellowship for graduate students gives a "preference" to Hispanic or Latino women with financial need. The Holmes Scholars program at the W&M School of Education aims to support "future education leaders of color" by providing mentorship and professional development opportunities. Critics argue that such preferences may perpetuate a form of reverse discrimination, where individuals from non-targeted groups may feel disadvantaged despite their qualifications.
The DOJ also highlighted the Lemon Legal Scholars Program at the W&M Law School, which offers up to five full scholarships for HBCU graduates. However, the law school’s website states that it will award at least five full scholarships to HBCU graduates admitted to its J.D. program. This initiative is part of a broader movement within legal education to increase the representation of minority students in the field, which has historically been dominated by individuals from predominantly white backgrounds.
Recipients of these scholarships gain access to networking opportunities, academic advising, and special events with faculty and alumni. The law school also promotes the "Reaching Back Scholarship," which has a "preference" for HBCU graduates or those who contribute to the diversity of the law school. These programs are designed to enhance the educational experience by fostering a diverse learning environment, which many educators argue enriches discussions and perspectives within academic settings.
Some of these programs were established to address the legacy of slavery and racial discrimination at William & Mary. The university has acknowledged its historical ties to slavery and has made efforts to atone for its past, including the creation of scholarships aimed at increasing the representation of marginalized communities. The DOJ has requested specific documents and information from the college by September 8 as part of the compliance review. While the department aims to secure compliance through informal means, it may resort to formal actions that could lead to the termination of federal financial assistance if necessary.
In response to the investigation, William & Mary stated that it is "committed to nondiscriminatory learning environments across our campus and complying with all state and federal laws." The institution has emphasized its dedication to creating an inclusive environment that supports students from various backgrounds. The outcome of this inquiry could have significant implications for the institution's scholarship programs and its approach to diversity and inclusion.
The implications of this investigation extend beyond William & Mary, as it reflects a national debate over race, equity, and the role of affirmative action in higher education. Institutions across the country are closely monitoring this case, as it could set a precedent for how schools design their scholarship programs and implement diversity initiatives. The investigation raises critical questions about how to balance the need for diversity with the legal framework that governs educational institutions, potentially reshaping the landscape of college admissions and funding in the United States.
As discussions surrounding race and education continue to evolve, the outcome of the DOJ's investigation may influence future policies and practices not only at William & Mary but also at other colleges and universities grappling with similar issues. The intersection of civil rights, educational equity, and institutional policies will remain a focal point of public discourse as stakeholders seek to navigate the complexities of promoting diversity while adhering to legal standards.
To learn more about the latest developments in Crime & Law, stay updated with our exclusive reports and analyses on AiLensNews.
