End of Preferential Admissions: Impact on Donor Behavior

The debate around preferential admissions for children of wealthy donors continues to be a contentious issue in higher education. One of the key questions this debate raises is whether the elimination of such privileges would lead to a reduction or cessation of donations from these families.

The Case for Unmitigated Excellence

A recent study highlighted in the New York Times challenges the notion that children of wealthy donors are less qualified than their peers. The data suggests that legacy applicants often outperform other applicants based on academic qualifications. This finding dispels the myth that legacy preferences are inherently detrimental to the academic quality of the student body.

However, this does not necessarily mean that wealthy donors would increase their support to the university. The distinction between admirable legacy preferences and buying tickets to privilege is crucial. Simply put, legacy admissions often provide avenues for underprivileged students from high-achieving families to access elite educational institutions. This is in sharp contrast to the purchase of privilege, where wealth is the determining factor rather than merit.

The Reality of Non-Donating Families

It is worth noting that many families with the means to purchase privilege are not donating significantly in the first place. They view payments for admissions as investments in their children's futures, bypassing the traditional model of philanthropy. In reality, their donations are often less about supporting the university and more about securing a privileged status for their offspring.

Moreover, a substantial number of students admitted through affirmative action programs come from upper-middle-class families. While not rich enough to pay millions in tuition, these families share a sense of comfort and proficiency that enables them to navigate the enrollment process with ease. This group of students contributes to a diverse and well-qualified student body without the need for preferential admissions or large donations.

The Role of Scholarships and Affirmative Action

In contrast to legacy preferences, the expansion of scholarship programs and affirmative action initiatives can significantly impact donor behavior. Many universities already have a higher percentage of scholarship recipients compared to legacy students. These students are more likely to be driven by the desire to contribute to the community and educational goals of the university.

Ending preferential admissions may, to some extent, reduce the donations from wealthy families who prioritize privilege over genuine philanthropy. However, the introduction of more equitable and merit-based policies could lead to increased support from a wider range of individuals who genuinely value the opportunity to contribute to higher education.

Conclusion

The decision to end preferential admissions for children of wealthy donors is a multifaceted one. While it may have an impact on some contributors, the shift towards more merit-based practices can create a more inclusive and diverse student body. Universities should consider these implications carefully and explore creative ways to encourage genuine philanthropy and support from all segments of the community.