Question: What is a Disparity Study?
A Disparity Study determines whether a government entity, either in the past or currently, engages in exclusionary practices in the solicitation and award of contracts to minority, and women-owned, and disadvantaged business enterprises (MWDBEs). 

Question: What is the purpose of a Disparity Study? Why is it necessary?
The study is necessitated in part by the 1989 U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in the case of City of Richmond v. J.A. Croson. The court decision imposed legal requirements on jurisdictions to establish a “compelling interest” to support the establishment of a minority and women business program. The results of this study will determine if a compelling interest exists for the continuation of Lone Star College's M/WBE program.
 

Question: How can local business owners and stakeholders get involved and stay informed?
The participation of stakeholders and business owners is crucial to the Disparity Study’s success. The selected consultant will hold a public Disparity Study kickoff/informational session. They will also be conducting stakeholder meetings, business owner interviews, sending surveys, and holding focus groups throughout the course of the Study to gather information; local business owners and stakeholders are encouraged to attend. The selected consultant will be sending invitations to area businesses and trade associations.

The business owner meetings and focus groups will allow the Consultant to document anecdotal testimony from firms and/or individuals that have done business or are interested in doing business directly with Lone Star College or indirectly through its prime contractors/lead professional consultants.

Data collected throughout the Study will be considered and incorporated into the final report.

Question: When will the study start and how long will it take? 

The Disparity Study will start in the month of September 2023, and it will take a year to be completed.

How will Lone Star College share the study results?

Upon completion, the entire study will be posted on Lone Star College's website and shared with all stakeholders and interest individuals.

Question: Has Lone Star College ever conducted a Disparity Study?

No, this is the first time Lone Star College is conducting a Disparity Study