Dear Faculty and Staff,
I write today as promised after last week’s community meeting and as we continue to navigate an evolving landscape regarding DEI and a host of other issues.
Some in our community may have questions about the new policies, including a Dear Colleague letter on DEI that was issued by the Department of Education over the weekend. We are reviewing these documents and collaborating with our higher education and legal partners to determine what impact they may have. As I stated during the community meeting, while we will evolve as necessary, we are taking a moderate, thoughtful approach.
Much of the recent federal guidance around diversity, equity, and inclusion has been issued with the stated goal of ensuring non-discrimination. Let me be clear: Simmons does not and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or national origin. Our initiatives that fall under the traditional diversity, equity, and inclusion umbrella are designed to prevent discrimination, foster a sense of belonging in our community, and ensure that people of all identities and backgrounds can thrive.
While periods of uncertainty understandably cause feelings of anxiety, Simmons’ mission, vision, and values serve as a source of strength and our guiding light forward. As we continue our proactive approach to this moment, we are meeting with relevant constituent groups to ensure we are listening to their concerns and answering questions. In addition, the General Counsel’s office is hosting a series of webinars for faculty and staff on Thursday, February 20, on topics related to recent executive orders and federal policy changes. Please also continue to visit the community updates page for information and resources.
In the coming days and weeks, we are likely to see a flurry of additional policies, legal challenges, and court opinions on a variety of topics of interest to this institution and our community. We will send additional updates and hold informational meetings as necessary. While federal policies and priorities can and do change, our constant is our commitment to our values. One of the things I most appreciate about Simmons is the kindness, generosity, and integrity of our faculty, staff, students, and alums.
Our priority continues to be ensuring that our actions are consistent with our mission as we foster a welcoming living, learning, and working environment where everyone feels respected and heard. I am confident that together we will continue to uphold the principles that have made this institution such an exceptional and transformative place for so many over the past 125 years.