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"Committed to our Principles": Another Reason I'm a Proud alumnus of Wesleyan. [1]
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Date: 2025-01-31
Michael Roth, President of Wesleyan University, (who was a Senior when I was a Freshman) sent out a message to students today, which was then sent out to us alum. After starting with some “Welcome back” pleasantries, he notes that “Wes is alive and well.”
He continues:
Yet looking around the world, we recognize these are anxious times. And sad times, too. Wednesday night’s plane accident in Washington, D.C., reminds us how suddenly an experience we take for granted can become a tragedy. In the chaos of this past week many of us have realized how much we, and our institutions, took for granted our dependence on the government. From Pell Grants and student loans to research support and so much more, universities across the country have relied on governmental support while maintaining their autonomy to teach and learn as they see fit. Freedom of expression—with respect to artistic practice or scholarly research—has long been compatible with government support. This has been good for the country, for our students and teachers—and for the wider world of learning.
Internationalization has also been good for learning. Each year Wesleyan welcomes hundreds of students from around the world, along with dozens of teachers, researchers, and artists. These visitors, along with immigrants to the United States, make an enormous contribution for which we are grateful.
Yes. All true. And then there is this [emphasis added]:
If we hadn’t fully realized it before, we surely now recognize that elections have consequences. But that doesn’t mean that we should be silent in the face of intimidation, scapegoating, and violations of the rule of law. As I’ve said in the past, the University will do everything it can to protect the most vulnerable among us. We remain committed to principles of non-discrimination, including equal protection, regardless of gender, national origin, or citizenship. I am appalled by the attacks on trans people and immigrants. Defending the most vulnerable among us is a duty.
And this [emphasis added]:
Our university has for decades worked to enhance the educational power of diversity, and we continue to do so. While powerful forces have demonized a caricature of DEI, we remain steadfast in our efforts to treat everyone in our community fairly while helping them feel they belong. These efforts are key to the dynamic pluralism that we seek to cultivate.
The above are very important words. They don’t “go without saying.” They need to be said. And they are. Other University Presidents need to do the same. Some may have already. My wife went to Yale and Harvard and neither administration has issued such a statement.
After letting students know who to reach out to if they have questions, Roth concludes with [emphasis added]:
Wesleyan is almost 200 years old and has seen turbulent times before. We will navigate the current situation consistent with our mission to create “a diverse, energetic community of students, faculty, and staff who think critically and creatively and who value independence of mind and generosity of spirit.” It is so good to be in your company!
Sincerely,
Michael S. Roth
President
Indeed.
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