“The Court fails to acknowledge the role of race in American history and contemporary social structures,” reads the statement co-signed by outgoing President Clayton Spencer and President-elect Garry Jenkins. “It also undervalues the crucial role that higher education plays in building a healthy and informed democracy and providing individuals of all backgrounds with the opportunity to fulfill their human potential.

“Bates will comply with the law. Yet, the Court’s ruling does not change who we are and what we value,” the statement says.