George Mason University (GMU) President Gregory Washington refuses to apologize to the Education Department, which claims GMU violated federal civil rights law. The university's attorney argues the department's investigation was incomplete and that no applicant faced discrimination. GMU contends it already made changes to comply with new federal mandates, including eliminating affirmative action programs and dissolving its diversity office. The university believes an apology would wrongly admit guilt and open them to legal liability. The Education Department's proposed resolution included Washington issuing a public apology.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.