"3, 2, One KU" Weekly Memo - 11-2-2026


 

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


AAU welcomes UAB, Georgetown to association

The Association of American Universities announced last week that the University of Alabama at Birmingham and Georgetown University have joined the association, bringing its membership to 73 universities.

KU is proud to be an AAU member, a distinction that recognizes leading research universities for excellence in research, education and innovation. Membership reflects the impact of our work in Kansas and beyond, as well as our responsibility to keep raising the bar through discovery, education and service.

Thank you for helping KU respond to Department of Education call to action

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback as we develop KU’s response to the U.S. Department of Education's call to action. Your input has helped identify examples, accomplishments and opportunities from across our campuses.

University Cabinet members are finalizing our document this week, with submission to the Kansas Board of Regents due Nov. 6. The Regents will then coordinate a response on behalf of all Regents universities for submission to the Department of Education.

KU launches new scholarship program for Kansas students

KU has launched its Kansas Commitment program, which helps make college more affordable for Kansans. Academically qualified students whose families have an adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less are guaranteed enough scholarships and grants to cover base undergraduate tuition and required student fees, provided they meet the program’s other requirements.

Please share this opportunity with prospective students and their families.

Two things to share

KU to honor military service around Veterans Day

KU will host and participate in events around Veterans Day, Nov. 11, to honor veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, military-affiliated students and military families. Their service and sacrifice have strengthened our university, our state and our nation.

Learn more about events on the Lawrence campus and at KU Medical Center.

College enrollment growth slows nationwide

National undergraduate enrollment held relatively steady this fall, but growth slowed considerably as higher education enters a period of demographic change. A new report from The Chronicle of Higher Education examines early enrollment trends and what they may signal for colleges and universities.

Here at KU, we recently announced record-high enrollment for the third straight year, even as our freshman class declined slightly from last year.

"One KU"

Reminder of One KU resources

The One KU Integrations Working Group offers several resources to help you follow integration efforts across our campuses:

  1. One KU Projects: Track key initiatives and their impact across our campuses.
  2. One KU Alignments: Learn which units are operating as One KU organizations and where they are in the alignment process.
  3. The One KU Integrations Working Group continues to gather input to improve collaboration, efficiency and the employee experience. Use the One KU Alignment Feedback Form to share your perspectives and help advance One KU for faculty, staff and students.

Questions or feedback? Contact the Strategy Office at Strategy@ku.edu.