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
Significant changes proposed for federal research funding
Last week we shared a memo about the proposed Office of Management & Budget rule that would significantly change the Uniform Guidance governing federal research funding. As outlined in a recent higher education association brief, the proposal would expand federal agency discretion in funding decisions, increase compliance and oversight requirements, restrict research costs and international collaborations, and introduce new uncertainties for researchers.
We are assessing potential impacts to the KU research enterprise and preparing a detailed institutional response to submit by the July 13 deadline. If you would like to share input for our consideration, please use the One KU Research feedback form and respond by June 26.
Ensuring our employees feel seen, valued and appreciated
Last week I met with this year's Staff Fellows to discuss how recognition and appreciation shape the employee experience and the culture we're building at KU. Their message resonated because it moved beyond grand gestures and focused on something more lasting — helping people feel seen, valued and connected to KU’s mission through their work. What resonated with me most was the simple but powerful idea that a timely word of thanks, a thoughtful question or a small act of support can strengthen belonging in ways that matter. The strongest appreciation happens closest to the work, and we all have a role in making that experience more consistent across KU. I want to thank the Staff Fellows for the thoughtful and honest way they approached this work. I also want to thank the entire KU community for continuing to show what it means to support one another.
AAU president: "STEM talent pipelines are under serious strain"
In a keynote speech to a group of the nation's leading energy researchers, AAU President Barbara R. Snyder said that, although the young researchers present were among the world’s most promising, the United States risks failing to develop future talent and losing current young researchers to other nations. Read more about President Snyder's remarks and how U.S. talent pipelines are under unprecedented strain.
Two things to share
Decoding DNA repair
KU researcher Bret Freudenthal is an internationally recognized leader in DNA repair whose work has advanced our understanding of how DNA damage leads to disease. His research led to breakthrough discoveries about DNA repair mechanisms at the atomic level, providing insights for targeting cancer cells and developing more effective chemotherapies. I encourage you to learn more about Professor Freudenthal in this video profile.
Providing world-class healthcare to Kansas — right in their own backyards
One of the most important ways KU serves Kansas is by expanding access to healthcare in rural communities. With this in mind, I encourage you to check out the recent video feature on Hays resident Vern Becker, whose diabetes is being controlled from his hometown thanks to The University of Kansas Health System Care Collaborative, a patient safety organization dedicated to delivering clinical care in rural communities.
"One KU"
Share your feedback and stay in the loop
Your ideas are important as we continue the One KU initiative to work more collaboratively and align the full strength of our campuses in pursuing our mission. Please share your insights that might help reduce silos and increase our ability to leverage more of our resources toward unified priorities as one university. Your response will be anonymous unless you choose to share your contact details. You can also visit the One KU website for updates and information.