Colleagues,
Welcome to "3, 2, One KU," a weekly memo in which I'll share updates and thoughts for the week ahead. The title of the memo is derived from the format: each edition will include three things to know, two things to share, and one reflection on how our "One KU" initiative is enhancing collaboration across our campuses. I hope you find this weekly communication informative.
Respectfully,
Doug
Three things to know
Research cost reimbursement
Last week’s AAU membership meeting included much discussion of federal policy impacting higher education. Of particular note, presidents and chancellors continue their advocacy for the Financial Accountability in Research (FAIR) model, which was developed in response to federal research agencies’ proposals to cap indirect cost reimbursement at 15%. While refinement of the FAIR model may be needed as part of the legislative process, we believe the model’s core principles are essential to sustaining American leadership in science and innovation. You can expect updates on this topic from me and our KU research leaders in the weeks ahead.
University Scholarly Achievement Award
Each year, KU recognizes four mid-career faculty members as University Scholarly Achievement Award recipients. This $10,000 award recognizes a significant scholarly or research contribution or creative work and covers all fields of scholarship at KU. We are now accepting nominations for the 2026 awards, with a submission deadline of Dec. 15. Visit the University Scholarly Achievement Awards webpage for details.
Resources for students facing food insecurity
With the federal government shutdown creating uncertainty about Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, I want to recognize the unfortunate reality that food insecurity is a challenge for some KU students. With this in mind, please take a moment to learn about the Campus Cupboard on the Lawrence campus and the Thrive Food Pantry at KU Medical Center, which provide food and related resources to students in need. Each pantry relies on donations, so please consider helping if you’re able.
Two things to share
Veterans Day events and recognition
As we approach Veterans Day, I’d like to reflect on KU’s community of 1,500 veterans, service members, military-affiliated spouses and dependents, and ROTC students. As Jayhawks, we should be proud of – and grateful to – our military-affiliated Jayhawks, who embody our mission of educating leaders. I encourage you to explore the various Veterans Day events affiliated with the Lawrence campus and KU Medical Center.
KU Conference Center Ribbon-Cutting
It is my pleasure to invite you to the ribbon-cutting for our new KU Conference Center on Wednesday, Nov. 12 at 11 a.m. Featured guests include Gov. Laura Kelly, state legislators, Lawrence officials and regional business leaders — all of whom helped make this facility possible. With more than 55,000 square feet of space, the facility enables KU to host conferences and events that will benefit our academic mission and drive economic growth for the region. Attendees are asked to RSVP by Nov. 10.
"One KU"
We’ve spoken a lot about our “One KU” initiative, which strives to enhance alignment among all KU campuses. Last week, Chief Research Officer Matthias Salathe and Vice Chancellor for Research Shelley Hooks shared information about the One KU Research Administration Council and the mission, vision and principles they have established to guide their work. If you receive an invitation to participate in a work group, share feedback via survey or listening session or provide feedback in some other form, I hope you will accept the invitation and be candid. Your input will drive the design of our newly integrated research ecosystem.