Forum Post
Today, AACU released a joint statement (from members and non members alike, it appears) regarding “the unprecedented government overreach and political interference now endangering American higher education”. (https://www.aacu.org/newsroom/a-call-for-constructive-engagement)
I was disappointed to not see WSU’s name among our peers, which included UW, Reed, Lewis & Clark, and other public and private institutions of higher education. I’m concerned with the lack of transparency from WSU’s administration regarding the institution’s messaging and values in relation to the current federal administration. We receive update reports, but there is very little communication in my opinion regarding what WSU actually thinks, feels, and what our long term plan is. I could respect WSU’s risk avoidance if there was at least transparent messaging about why our administration was making these decisions, but instead it just feels like choices are being made with no communication (as also evidenced by the previous forum post regarding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion language).
Response
The Faculty Senate Executive Officers have been notified of this forum post and will respond back once more information becomes available.
Comments
As a 1969 graduate of WSU, a WSU mom and a WSU grandmother, I , too, am disappointed that WSU has not yet signed the AACU statement. Why not?
I am a WSU alum and dismayed not to see our name on this letter with other universities and colleges. Support this!!!
We have reached out to both the President and Provost for a response and provided a link to this letter.
Any update on this, Tracy? As of this comment, WSU seems to have the distinction of being the only public four-year institution in Washington that hasn’t signed on. It’s a pretty conspicuous absence.
As a WSU grad (1979 pol sci), I searched in vain for Cougar courage and found it lacking. Please sign!!
Karen Sticklin
We have reached out again to the President and Provost. At this time they have not provided a refusal or endorsement. We will continue to inquire.
Thanks so much for pursuing a response!