Statement from President Reber Regarding Recent Supreme Court Decisions

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
Christopher M. Reber, Ph.D.

July 1, 2023

Dear Members of the Hudson County Community College Family,

Recently, the Supreme Court of the United States announced three decisions that concern all of us. These decisions strike down Affirmative Action and previously announced plans for student loan forgiveness; and permit a business to refuse service to gay people in an unprecedented interpretation of freedom of speech. These decisions, individually and collectively, run counter to our core values and our Mission of serving and supporting all who enter our doors. They are antithetical to our shared commitment to equity and access in everything we do. The decisions are an affront to those we serve as a gateway to a brighter future and the American Dream.

Like other community colleges, Hudson County Community College is an open-access institution, so the Affirmative Action ruling will not affect our continued admission of all students seeking education and a brighter future. And most of our students do not take out loans due to the significant financial aid resources available to them. But the Affirmative Action and loan forgiveness decisions will affect many HCCC students and employees who pursue continued baccalaureate and graduate education, including many who apply to highly selective colleges and universities including Ivy League and Research 1 institutions.

While the Supreme Court’s decisions are disappointing, we must not allow them to lead to feelings of discouragement and despair. All members of the Hudson County Community College family remain steadfast in our shared commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and our unwavering belief in the value, dignity, and celebration of every member of our community including our LGBTQ students, colleagues, and friends. We will continue to work collaboratively with our K-12 and post-secondary educational partners to ensure and strengthen seamless educational pathways for all members of our community. 

Education remains the greatest antidote to ignorance, hatred, bigotry, and barriers that hold people back. Let us work together and redouble our efforts to combat discrimination in all forms. Let us continue to promote opportunity for everyone. This is the bedrock of our democracy.

Sincerely,
Christopher M. Reber
President