News
Mon, 02/27/2017
Reaffirming our core values
With new leadership comes new ideas, and that has certainly been the case in Washington since January. Some of the ideas proposed by the new administration have caused concern at universities nationwide – including the University of Kansas – and I believe many of those concerns are valid. I want to assure you we continue to work with peer universities and our congressional delegation to be part of the policymaking process on issues affecting higher education.
Mon, 02/13/2017
Sharing the great work you are doing
Last Thursday, I had the opportunity to visit with the House Higher Education Budget Committee, which this year includes a number of first-year legislators. It was my second visit in three weeks with this group, and each time, I was heartened to meet with so many thoughtful lawmakers who care deeply about our state and our university.
Sun, 01/29/2017
Information regarding executive order on immigration
Last Friday’s executive order suspending immigration from Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen has raised concerns for many members of the University of Kansas community. I share these concerns, and I want to assure you we are coordinating with our international programs staff, immigration experts, and peer universities to fully understand the implications of the new federal policies.
Tue, 01/17/2017
MLK, the Kansas Legislature, and the ongoing transformation of KU
As has been the case for many years, the start of our spring semester coincides with Martin Luther King Day observances. I re-read my opening messages of the past few years, and I found myself almost wishing that Martin Luther King Day might eventually be “just another holiday” – but it is not yet. This year, more than any I can remember in more than 30 years, King’s call for equal justice and his aspiration to make true democracy a reality for our country are needed.
Fri, 12/16/2016
Reflecting on a semester of achievements
As our semester comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on your achievements during the past few months and thank you for your efforts on behalf of our university.
Mon, 12/05/2016
Maintaining our focus on research
I remain committed to working with policymakers, elected officials and university leaders nationwide to promote science, research and universities’ central role in driving new discoveries and technologies. At the same time, I call on all of you to continue doing what you do best — that is, making discoveries that improve lives, create prosperity, and help us better understand the world. This is our obligation as a community of scholars.
Mon, 11/21/2016
Giving thanks
Thanksgiving is the time of year to reflect on the blessings in our lives and the things for which we are grateful. My hope for you is that these blessings include family, friends, health and the chance to wake up each day and live a meaningful life.
Mon, 11/07/2016
Transforming education and research in our Central District
The Integrated Science Building takes center stage this Thursday when we host a “topping out” ceremony with the Central District development team and construction crew. The event will include a short program and conclude with the ceremonial “raising of the final beam” atop the building.
Mon, 10/24/2016
Innovation in action
The mission of the University of Kansas is to educate leaders, build healthy communities and make discoveries that change the world. Later this week, we have an opportunity to see all aspects of this mission on display in a special way.
Mon, 10/10/2016
Next steps regarding weapons on campus
Nothing is more important than the safety and well-being of our University of Kansas community. With that in mind, I’d like to update you on our efforts to ensure KU is in compliance with state law allowing concealed weapons on university campuses beginning July 1, 2017.
Tue, 09/27/2016
Our marketplace of ideas
As a university and a public institution, we must support the right of the members of our KU community to express their individually held beliefs. Free speech and free expression are core tenets of why universities are the center of debate, thought and discourse in our world.
Mon, 09/26/2016
A special class of Jayhawks
I am delighted to announce this year’s freshman class has grown for the fifth straight year and is the most academically talented class in KU history, according to enrollment numbers released today.
Thu, 09/22/2016
Stepping down as chancellor in summer 2017
Recently, I shared with the Kansas Board of Regents my intention to step down as chancellor next summer. KU always has been a special place with remarkable people and an instinctive spirit to change our world for the better. It has been an honor to lead the University of Kansas and serve as your chancellor.
Tue, 09/06/2016
Working together to strengthen communities
I believe that public research universities play a special role in our society. In addition to educating students and making discoveries, we address society’s most complicated challenges on behalf of the public good. At the University of Kansas, this is reflected in our mission to strengthen communities in areas where our expertise can make a difference, both in Kansas and beyond.
Mon, 08/22/2016
A new year for our university
The start of the fall semester is always exciting at the University of Kansas. A sense of renewal comes from seeing thousands of students returning to our campuses, and it makes me proud to think about the great work we’ll do as a community of scholars during the coming year. This year is especially exciting because of the transformation that continues at KU.
Mon, 05/16/2016
A special year and a milestone for our university
Yesterday we came together for Commencement, and I want to thank all of you who made it such a special day for our graduates and their families and friends. I would also like to take a moment to look back on what has been an historic year for the University of Kansas, thanks to you.
Mon, 04/04/2016
Elevating our reputation
Last week, we announced we will soon be welcoming three candidates for the position of Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor of the Lawrence campus. The search committee received strong applications from candidates across the country who are excited about this opportunity. The truth is, KU is in an excellent position to attract top candidates for this role, thanks to your hard work.
Mon, 03/21/2016
More than just doing
Welcome back from Spring Break! For those of you who stayed on campus, I hope you took advantage of the slightly slower pace to catch up or get ahead on your next project. For those who left town, I hope you’re rested and ready to finish the semester strong.
Wed, 03/02/2016
Governor Brownback implements 3 percent cut to Regents universities
Yesterday afternoon, Governor Sam Brownback announced a 3 percent cut to Kansas Board of Regents universities, totaling $17 million for the current fiscal year, which ends June 30. For the University of Kansas, this reduction amounts to $7.18 million across all our campuses — $3.95 million for KU Lawrence, and $3.23 million for KU Medical Center.
Mon, 02/29/2016
Weapons policy committees to begin work
In December, I wrote about how the University of Kansas is working to comply with the state law that will allow concealed handguns in campus facilities beginning July 1, 2017. Today I’d like to update you on our efforts.
Mon, 02/15/2016
Your efforts help students choose KU
The University of Kansas freshman class has grown for four straight years, a notable achievement that can be attributed largely to the great work being done by Enrollment Management, Marketing Communications and other offices that communicate directly with prospective students.
Mon, 02/01/2016
Building healthy communities in Kansas
Faculty, staff and students at the University of Kansas are building healthier communities across our state, and I want to update you on these efforts. But first, I want to provide a brief update from Topeka, where the 2016 Legislative Session has begun.
Tue, 01/19/2016
Fulfilling a dream
As we begin this new semester, I would like to reflect on discussions about diversity and inclusion we had last semester and our ongoing work on these issues. This is especially fitting as we celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. this week through various events on campus and in our communities.
Thu, 12/17/2015
Looking back on a semester of accomplishments
As our semester comes to a close and we begin preparations for the holiday season, I want to take a moment to thank you for your efforts and celebrate your achievements over the past few months.
Mon, 12/07/2015
An update on gun laws affecting Kansas universities
There has been increasing discussion about changes to Kansas gun policy that will impact state universities beginning in 2017. In light of this, I’d like to outline next steps for the University of Kansas related to guns on our campuses.