Generation Z Workers Have High Standards for Leaders Amid Affirmative Action Reversal

​As universities update their admission applications to remove questions supporting affirmative action, members of Generation Z want more inclusion, diversity and human-centeredness.

In light of the Supreme Court ruling that effectively eliminated the use of affirmative action in college admissions, company leaders must work harder to win the trust of Generation Z in ways that were not required previously.

“I feel this shift will cause a subtle distrust of leadership among Gen Z, until proven otherwise, as now there is even less consequence for inconsiderate, or even insensitive, behavior in the workplace,” said Devon Prentis, a sophomore at Texas State University.

Prentis said Generation Z’s desire to be led by inclusive leaders has not diminished since the reversal of affirmative action.

“It does change my post-graduation career decisions in that I will now especially be on the lookout for mentions of equity [in job descriptions],” Prentis said. “At the same time, it hasn’t changed my mindset too much. I still intend to go after any opportunities I can, and I understand that I do not need to stay in a place that does not respect me. I can always strive for more.”

Members of Generation Z expect their workplace leaders  to see and treat them as whole humans—not just workers. This outspoken group expects the companies they work for to commit in action and words to societal issues globally.

“Gen Z, as the most racially and ethnically diverse generation in the U.S., expects…