Amherst College, a prestigious liberal arts school, saw a significant drop in Black student enrollment in its 2023 freshman class, down to 3 percent from a historical average of 11 percent. This drastic decrease has caused unease within the college community.
Students report a noticeable decline in engagement and participation in Black student gatherings. The reduced number of Black students is impacting the overall campus experience and sense of community.
The decline comes amidst national debates surrounding affirmative action and conservative attacks on the concept of diversity in higher education. Amherst, like many other institutions, grapples with maintaining its commitment to diversity in this evolving political climate.