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
University announces recipients of 2026 teaching awards
At KU, we talk often about preparing students for their lives and careers after graduation. That preparation happens every day in classrooms and laboratories, studios and clinical settings, through the work of our faculty and instructors. Great teaching gives students more than knowledge — it teaches them how to think and prepares them for the challenges ahead.
Last week, we announced 15 faculty members from Lawrence and KU Medical Center as recipients of KU’s annual teaching awards. These honorees exemplify the impact great teaching has on our students. I invite you to join us in celebrating these outstanding teachers Oct. 13 at our University Teaching Awards ceremony. This ceremony has become an annual highlight for KU and a wonderful opportunity to recognize the educators who make a difference in the lives of our students. You can RSVP online.
House temporarily blocks OMB’s proposed revisions to federal grantmaking processes
Last week, the House of Representatives passed a bill that keeps the government open through Dec. 11. Among other things, the bill blocks the Office of Management and Budget from finalizing its proposal to make significant changes to how federal agencies administer research grants. The bill now heads to President Trump’s desk for his signature. The White House has indicated that the president supports the bill. As noted previously, OMB’s proposal to revise the Uniform Guidance – the standardized, government-wide framework for issuing federal grants and other forms of financial assistance – would seriously harm American scientific research.
The proposed changes to Uniform Guidance are just the latest example of the uncertainty researchers have had to navigate in recent years. That’s why I so appreciated the message of thanks to KU researchers that Matthias Salathe and Shelley Hooks shared last week. As Matthias and Shelley wrote, we remain inspired by our researchers’ resilience, and we are grateful to the staff across KU who help make this work possible.
Joe Pond to serve as interim chief operating officer, senior vice chancellor
Joe Pond will serve as KU’s interim chief operating officer and senior vice chancellor. He formally assumed the role last Friday with the retirement of our long-time COO David Vranicar. As described in last week’s announcement, Joe will serve as interim while KU conducts a national search for a permanent successor, assisted by the search firm Korn Ferry. Our goal is to have the position filled this semester.
Two things to share
KU faculty members selected for fellowship
Six University of Kansas faculty members have been selected to participate in the Big 12 Faculty Fellowship program during the 2026-27 academic year. The program allows tenured and tenure-track faculty on the Lawrence campus to expand their research connections within the Big 12 Conference through scholarly endeavors.
KU tackles Kansas’ rural healthcare challenges
KU has been a national leader in rural health for generations. Today, Jayhawks are working to expand access and strengthen healthcare in communities across Kansas. Learn more about how KU creates a healthier Kansas.
"One KU"
Reminder: New resources available to keep you informed
Just a reminder of new resources to keep you informed about our One KU initiative.
- The One KU Projects site lists key initiatives underway across KU, highlighting their progress and impact.
- The One KU Alignments site showcases how units are working together across the university and shares examples of alignment that support institutional priorities.
Our next step is to develop a list of FAQs to address questions and topics raised in nearly 200 responses to the One KU Alignment Feedback Form.