News
Fri, 03/04/2022
Join us for the second annual University Research Awards event on April 5
We're hosting the second annual University Research Awards from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, April 5, at the Lied Center to celebrate many of our most research-productive faculty.
Thu, 03/03/2022
Lawrence, Edwards campuses to begin phasing out indoor mask mandate today
Today the University of Kansas will begin phasing out our indoor mask mandate on the Lawrence and Edwards campuses.
Mon, 02/28/2022
A statement on the invasion of Ukraine
The unfolding attack on Ukraine continues to cause tremendous concern, anger and sadness across the world, including within higher education and here at the University of Kansas. This unprovoked attack on a sovereign democratic state has rightfully been condemned by leaders around the world, and on behalf of our university, we join them in condemning this assault.
Tue, 01/18/2022
Welcome back to campus, Jayhawks
With the academic semester now underway, I would like to preview a few highlights for the spring and update you on key initiatives across the university.
Fri, 01/14/2022
The Kansas Legislature and KU's priorities for the 2022 session
Earlier this week, the Kansas Legislature convened its 2022 session. As lawmakers conclude their first full week of work, I’d like to provide you a brief update on the latest happenings in the Statehouse and share our legislative priorities for the session.
Fri, 01/07/2022
The latest county mask mandate and implications for Allen Fieldhouse
Earlier this week, Douglas County implemented an emergency mask mandate for all indoor public spaces in the county, effective today, Jan. 7, to protect the community against the latest COVID-19 surge.
Fri, 12/17/2021
Looking back on our achievements from the fall semester
As final exams come to a close and we pause for the holidays, I hope you will join me in reflecting on our achievements from the past semester. As always, there is much to celebrate, thanks to you.
Tue, 12/07/2021
University to pause vaccine mandate after federal injunction
Earlier today, a federal judge issued an injunction halting implementation of the federal COVID-19 vaccine mandate for federal government contractors and subcontractors. As a result, the University of Kansas will pause its employee vaccine mandate process.
Mon, 12/06/2021
Remembering Senator Robert J. Dole
learned of the passing of Senator Robert J. Dole, a towering figure in American politics who leaves behind a legacy of leadership and public service. On behalf of the entire university, I offer my condolences to Senator Dole’s family, friends and colleagues. ...
Fri, 10/22/2021
KU to implement employee vaccine mandate to comply with federal order
Last month, President Joe Biden issued an executive order requiring employees of institutions that contract with the federal government to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 by Dec. 8. Per this order, the University of Kansas will now require all KU employees to submit proof they are fully vaccinated by Dec. 8.
Thu, 10/14/2021
Changes to our compliance and risk management functions
We want to provide an update on our compliance and risk management functions that will help us identify and respond to risks that can affect our ability to achieve our university’s objectives.
Wed, 10/13/2021
Audrey Coleman named director of Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics
I am excited to announce that Audrey Coleman, a nine-year veteran of the Dole Institute leadership team who has led some of the institute’s most important initiatives, will become the institute’s new director. Audrey will begin her new role November 29.
Mon, 09/27/2021
Remembering Burdett Loomis
This weekend we were saddened to learn of the passing of Burdett Loomis, a beloved professor emeritus of political science, a devoted mentor and a pillar in our community for more than 40 years.
Tue, 09/14/2021
Information regarding a reported sexual assault in our community
Last night, many of you gathered in response to a reported instance of sexual assault within our community.
Fri, 09/10/2021
Campus events to commemorate 9/11 anniversary
This weekend marks the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks on our country, and I would like to take a moment to reflect on this occasion with you.
Thu, 09/09/2021
A message regarding recent social media activity at KU
I am writing you regarding a recent Twitter post by our student body president that many Jayhawks – myself included – found to be disappointing and concerning. I would like to share a few thoughts on this.
Thu, 08/26/2021
Erica Terry named director of Dole Institute of Politics
Erica Terry, a seasoned executive leader who has guided some of the region’s most respected organizations, will join KU as director of the Dole Institute, beginning October 4.
Mon, 08/23/2021
Welcome back, Jayhawks
The start of the academic year always provides unmatched energy and a sense of renewal for our community. This is especially true this year as we see our campuses coming back to life in a way they haven’t since the pandemic began.
Fri, 08/13/2021
Vaccinated students eligible for incentives, including free tuition
Students at the University of Kansas Lawrence and Edwards campuses will be eligible to receive a range of prizes after uploading their COVID-19 vaccine records to the Watkins Health Services student portal.
Fri, 08/06/2021
University to reinstate indoor mask policy on Lawrence, Edwards campuses
The University of Kansas will reinstate a mandate that everyone on the Lawrence and Edwards campuses – regardless of vaccination status – wear masks indoors. Additionally, masks are strongly recommended in outdoor crowded spaces on those campuses.
Wed, 07/28/2021
University recommends all individuals wear masks in indoor public spaces
Given new guidance and keeping with our practice of aligning with Lawrence Douglas-County Public Health recommendations, our university is recommending all people — including those who are fully vaccinated — wear masks in indoor public spaces on our Lawrence and Edwards campuses where more than one person is gathering, effective immediately.
Thu, 05/27/2021
Masks no longer required on Lawrence, Edwards campuses
The University of Kansas is rescinding its mask policy and will now make masks optional – not required – for all individuals on the Lawrence and Edwards campuses, effective immediately. Exceptions include public transportation and campus healthcare facilities, which will still require masks.
Mon, 05/24/2021
University to implement Task Force on Community-Responsive Public Safety recommendations
Today I am writing to voice my support for each of the Task Force on Community-Responsive Public Safety recommendations and to let you know that the university will be implementing all of them.
Mon, 05/24/2021
Reflections on our academic year
With yesterday’s Commencement capping off our semester, it’s worth looking back on an academic year that’s been like no other in history and celebrating your contributions to our success.
Mon, 04/05/2021
KU announces new athletics director
I am excited to announce that Travis Goff is joining the University of Kansas as our new director of athletics.
Wed, 03/10/2021
A change in leadership for Kansas Athletics
Earlier today, Director of Athletics Jeff Long announced he is stepping down from his position. Jeff and I spoke at length last night, and while I know he would have loved to stay here many more years, I respect his selfless decision to step down so that we can move Kansas Athletics in a different direction.
Tue, 02/23/2021
Update on COVID-19 vaccine availability for higher education
We have good news to share related to COVID-19 vaccines and how higher education is prioritized in the state’s vaccine plans. Local public health authorities may now determine that it is appropriate to include university faculty and staff in the current phase of vaccine distribution if those workers are providing critical services in close contact with a large number of individuals and are not able to work remotely.
Wed, 02/17/2021
Jeff DeWitt to become KU chief financial officer
I am writing to announce the newest member of our senior leadership team. Jeff DeWitt, a seasoned financial administrator with more than 30 years of experience in complex public sector roles, will join KU as our new chief financial officer & executive vice chancellor for finance.
Tue, 02/16/2021
“One Day. One KU.” Your work inspires our donors
This week, on Thursday, February 18, we’re again bringing together supporters of our university for our fourth annual 24-hour giving campaign, One Day. One KU.
Tue, 02/09/2021
Our plans for Commencement this spring
While there are still many unknowns about how the pandemic will play out in the months ahead, we are tentatively planning to host in-person Commencement events in May, both for this year’s graduates and the Class of 2020.