Naval Academy Ends Race-Conscious Admissions Following Trump Administration Directive

The policy shift comes after a Supreme Court exemption and a federal court ruling upholding race-based admissions, now under review for potential appeal.

• The U.S. Naval Academy has officially ended its race-conscious admissions policy, as confirmed in a March 28, 2025, court filing by the Trump administration.
• This change follows a January 2025 directive from President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth barring race-based preferences in Defense Department operations.
• Naval Academy superintendent Vice Admiral Yvette M. Davids implemented the policy change on February 14, 2025, aligning with the directive, and reiterated the shift during a congressional hearing this week.
• The decision contrasts with a December 2024 federal court ruling that upheld race-conscious admissions at the academy, citing national security and historical lessons on diversity.
• The Trump administration has requested 60 days to discuss with Students for Fair Admissions whether the appeal of the December ruling remains necessary in light of the new policy.

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