I know our community is closely following the flurry of recent Executive Orders, federal guidance, and legal actions, especially as they affect higher education, diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, research programs, funding, and immigration. Penn has always upheld the law, and we will continue doing so. But the future of higher education may alter dramatically depending on how courts rule, how agencies implement new policies, and how future orders and legislation are enacted.
The anxiety and frustration many people feel at this moment is deep and often quite personal. I understand. What has changed is the increasing polarization in public opinion about higher education and the accompanying changes in federal guidance and oversight.
Penn must both respond and adapt to this rapidly shifting landscape. Among these are:. This focus is especially important in times of turbulence and uncertainty. Academic freedom : Everything we do must support freedom of inquiry and thought, open expression, and the rigorous pursuit of truth.
These elements are essential to how we contribute to the world. Opportunity, access, and support : Everything we do must be anchored in principled non-discrimination, expanding access, and embracing diversity in all its forms β all while following the law, which we will continue doing. These commitments to our culture have made Penn a pioneer in higher education for more than a century.
We are stronger for it. A commitment to inclusive excellence has advanced research, scholarship, and patient care in profound ways. As I communicated on February 11 , cuts to federal funding loom, from financial aid to research funds, and proposed legislation to increase endowment taxes.
