Revisionist History Project Dillard
Jul 8, 2021
Lauren Rabe, an Environmental studies economics major at Reed College, joins the discussion about Dillard University, a historically Black institution in New Orleans. They dive into the biases in U.S. News college rankings and how these metrics undermine the reputation of HBCUs. Rabe shares insights on the financial challenges faced by Dillard and the paradox of prestige in education. The conversation also highlights Dillard's unique heritage and its role in fostering African American graduates in challenging fields like physics.
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Dillard's Low Ranking
- Dillard University, a historically Black college, resembles a postcard from the 1930s with its elegant campus and amazing choir.
- Despite its charm, Dillard is ranked very low in the U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings, placed in a "bottomless pit" of mediocrity.
Perpetuation of Privilege
- Dillard primarily serves underprivileged students, most of whom are Black and Pell Grant eligible.
- The U.S. News rankings system perpetuates privilege, disadvantaging institutions serving these populations.
Peer Assessment Bias
- A school's endowment size heavily influences its peer assessment score in the U.S. News rankings.
- Factors like endowment, tuition, racial demographics, and Pell Grant percentages can predict over 90% of a school's peer assessment score.