Air Force Academy Alters Admissions Policy

The U.S. Air Force Academy has ceased considering race, gender, and ethnicity in its admissions process following a policy shift initiated by President Donald Trump's administration. This decision aligns with a January executive order aimed at eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across the military. The change was formalized in early February by a memorandum from Gwendolyn R. DeFilippi, the acting assistant secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs. The move follows a similar revision by the U.S. Naval Academy and responds to lawsuits from Students for Fair Admissions, which succeeded in ending race-conscious admissions at civilian universities. The Justice Department has requested postponement of related lawsuits while these new policies are implemented. This policy shift marks a significant change in the approach to fostering diversity within U.S. military academies.