Scholarship program paused for 2025–26 intake
The University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School has paused its Sadie T.M. Alexander Scholarship, which offers full tuition to students focused on racial justice. The decision affects future applicants, as the school won’t accept new applications for the 2025–26 cycle. Current scholars will keep their funding and program support.
The scholarship, launched in 2021, honors Dr. Sadie Alexander, the first Black woman to graduate from Penn Law in 1927. It was introduced amid nationwide calls for racial equity and internal backlash over racist comments made by a faculty member.
Penn Law closes equal opportunity office
In addition to pausing the scholarship, Penn Carey Law plans to shut down its Office of Equal Opportunity and Engagement. Dean Sophia Z. Lee says the office’s work will continue through broader, school-wide initiatives. Staff members in the office, including interim associate dean Josie Pickens, face an uncertain future.
The office once worked to support student inclusion and guide conversations around racial equity. It was previously known as the Office of Equity and Inclusion until its name changed last semester. This change came during a university-wide effort to remove diversity-related language.
Political pressure and funding threats behind decision
The university’s recent actions follow national political pressure. The Trump administration issued threats to cut federal funds from colleges that continue diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. In response, Penn and several other universities began removing such references from official websites.
Earlier this year, Penn’s medical school also reviewed and scaled back diversity committees and pipeline programs. The law school has not explained exactly why it paused the Sadie Alexander Scholarship or closed the equal opportunity office.
Sadie Alexander’s legacy at Penn and beyond
Sadie Alexander became the first African American woman to earn a PhD in the United States before attending Penn Law. Despite facing discrimination, she graduated in 1927 and made history again by joining the Law Review’s editorial board, thanks to strong academic performance and peer support.
Alexander’s story is one of resilience. As a student, she couldn’t check out books from the university library or receive service at nearby restaurants. But she persisted and opened doors for others.
Students reflect on Alexander’s impact
The first group of Sadie Alexander scholars was announced in 2022. One recipient, Angel Reed, expressed deep pride in continuing Alexander’s legacy. She credited the Black Law Students Association (BLSA) for helping push the program forward.
“I hope to make them proud and continue to break down barriers for those who come after me,” Reed said at the time.
Law school still grappling with internal controversy
The law school’s diversity efforts have faced additional strain from internal controversies. Professor Amy Wax made several public comments seen as racist, including remarks about Black and Asian students. Former dean Ted Ruger launched a review in 2022, leading to sanctions against Wax. Her suspension with half pay remains in place this academic year.
Despite the pause, Penn Carey Law says it is still assessing the future of the Sadie Alexander program. The statement released promises a continued commitment to access and opportunity.
