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
What instructors need to know about new Kansas DEI and CRT legislation
In a message to campus last week, Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Mafi provided an update on recent state-level changes regarding DEI- and CRT-related content in Kansas higher education. As Provost Mafi wrote in his memo, no action is required at this time; but because implementation guidance will continue to develop, he wants instructors to understand the current context and what is, and is not, expected now.
Regents appoint Jennifer Bonds-Raacke as next President and CEO
The Kansas Board of Regents voted last week to name Jennifer Bonds-Raacke as the next President and CEO of the Board. Bonds-Raacke has most recently served as the Board’s Vice President for Academic Affairs. Her career also includes leadership roles as President of Saint Martin’s University, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at St. Norbert College and Dean of the Graduate School and Office of Scholarship and Sponsored Projects at Fort Hays State University.
International Affairs provides additional direction on immigration change
Last week, our International Affairs unit provided additional guidance to academic program leaders regarding the Department of Homeland Security’s new rule eliminating the "duration of status" immigration benefit for F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors, which goes into effect on Sept. 15.
Two things to share
Jayhawk-powered firm named designer of Kansas City Chiefs’ new stadium
MANICA Architecture, headed by KU architecture alumnus David Manica, is designing the new home for the Kansas City Chiefs. Read the full article in the most recent edition of Crimson & Blue magazine.
Book event will bring life, investment lessons home to Lawrence
University of Kansas alumnus David Booth, founder of Dimensional Fund Advisors, will discuss his new book, “Stay Calm: Learn to Embrace Uncertainty in Investing and Life,” at an event Sept. 10 at KU. The free event is open to the public, and registration is required. Attendees will receive a free copy of Booth’s book.
"One KU"
KU, Lawrence shine on world stage
As many of you experienced first-hand this summer, Lawrence and KU played host to Algeria’s national team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This was truly a moment that brought our campus and community together in celebration of sport, culture and humanity. As ESPN highlighted, colleges across the country embraced the global spotlight, and KU stood out for the warmth and unity we showed the world. Kansas Athletics actively engaged with FIFA to ensure this opportunity could be realized. Their efforts, combined with what Lawrence had to offer, were defining contributors to being selected as a basecamp.
It’s a reminder that Kansas Athletics offers more than fierce competition and the energy of the Jayhawk fan experience. It’s a unifying force that advances our One KU mission by representing Kansas with excellence and integrity, engaging our communities through outreach and service, and strengthening our brand through global visibility and partnership.