Princeton investigating admission incident

On the evening of July 24, Princeton University learned that in April one or more members of its admission staff used the Social Security numbers of a number of Princeton applicants to access a secure Web site by which Yale informed its applicants of its admission decisions.

A Princeton staff member informed Yale admission personnel of what had been done at a meeting of Ivy League admission officers in May. On July 25, Yale brought this information to the attention of federal and state law enforcement officials.

Princeton is aggressively undertaking a thorough investigation with outside professional assistance. In the meantime, Stephen LeMenager, an associate dean of admission who has acknowledged improperly accessing the Yale Web site, has been placed on administrative leave.

In public responses, Princeton has clearly stated that it deeply regrets the improper acts that have taken place and has pledged to cooperate fully in any external investigation that may be conducted, in addition to conducting its own.

Contact: Marilyn Marks (609) 258-3601