SIPA’s values

Dear members of the SIPA community,

At the end of this difficult week, I write to affirm the values that drive SIPA’s mission and guide our community.

Recent actions by the federal government have had a significant impact at SIPA. The withdrawal of research grants and contracts may disrupt our faculty’s research; the suspension of fellowships and scholarships, particularly those administered through the Fulbright and FLAS programs, is already jeopardizing the ability of some of our students to finish their degree programs; the dismantling of federal agencies like USAID, the chief scientist’s office at NASA, the EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and many others has reshaped the employment prospects of students and alumni alike. The fear and unease created by these measures has been exacerbated by the detention of a member of our community, Mahmoud Khalil, by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Taken together, these events have created widespread anxiety among SIPA’s students, staff, and faculty as they undertake their work.

SIPA is dedicated to advancing knowledge for the public good in an environment that upholds free expression, open inquiry, and robust debate—especially with those who hold different political views. We are proud to do so in a community of remarkable diversity and variety—our students, staff, and faculty have come to learn, work, and teach from across the United States and from countries around the world. We are united in our commitment to academic excellence and to leadership in contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive world. We celebrate our history of path-breaking scholarship, policy impact, thoughtful and inventive teaching, and vibrant intellectual life. We are committed to sustaining and strengthening it.

In the coming weeks, we are likely to face more turmoil and uncertainty, and we will do so undeterred, working with the University to support the free speech, academic freedom, and institutional autonomy that are essential for our students and faculty to be able to study, develop, and promote the kinds of policy interventions that will make the world a better place. This is the mission of the School and we intend to fulfill it. We remain committed to our collective fight against harassment, discrimination, and all forms of hate. Together, we will continue to stand for dignity, respect, and inclusivity for all.

There is much we do not know about the nature and impact of the current and future government actions but as we learn more, SIPA leadership will continue to convene students, staff, and faculty. We will consult with our wider community of alumni and employers to provide updates, answer questions, and seek advice and counsel.

SIPA is a remarkable community, and I draw strength from your wisdom, strength, and commitment.

Sincerely,

Keren Yarhi-Milo
Dean, School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA)
Adlai E. Stevenson Professor of International Relations