Former University President James Duderstadt started some of the original efforts to attract and maintain high enrollment percentages of minorities and women. In 1987, he implemented the Michigan Mandate, a program aimed at increasing such rates. In 1994, he conceived the Agenda for Women. Part of his goal has been realized - minority enrollment percentages have doubled since he initiated the mandate.
These programs are valuable assets and should continue to thrive. University President-select Lee Bollinger and his administration will soon begin their term. They should be on the lookout for more ways to increase the percentages of enrolled women and minorities.
More women and minorities contribute to the diverse atmosphere many incoming students seek. The recent release of figures attesting to the all-time high for minority enrollment comes closer to reflecting the national population. In the same vein, the number of women entering the University historically has not been true to national proportions. By making the University community more representative of the national spectrum, the institution is actually improving its representation in the work force. John Matlock, director of the Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives, said that the majority of individuals seeking jobs in the near future will be minorities and women.
To increase future enrollment, the University should maintain the initiatives it conducts to attract applicants. The King/Chavez/Parks program is a successful example of community outreach that serves to increase and improve minority enrollment. University representatives working for the program introduce junior- and senior-high school students to the University and encourage them to strive for higher education.
Beyond increasing admissions, the University must strive to maintain enrollment and keep the valuable students it has. Several programs attempt to keep students at the University. The Comprehensive Studies Program offers mentor-type relationships with advisers and more one-on-one attention than students could get through LSA academic advising. The Bridge Program, which brings students to the University several weeks before classes begin, provides summer classes and workshops to assist students with the adjustment from high school to college.
The University has made progress, but its success should not halt the progress that must continue. Bollinger and his administration should foster the University's valuable programs and create more initiatives to bridge the gap between the national face and that of the University community.