We are Stronger as a Collective

“Sticks in a bundle are unbreakable.”

I gather wisdom from this proverb, which is quite relevant today as we navigate a rapidly changing environment that has divided and fractured parts of our state, nation and world.

These are indeed complex and uncertain times in higher education, where the value of our work, the autonomy to carry it out, and how it is funded are all part of the local and national dialogue.

It is important to remember that, as students, faculty and staff, we are stronger as a collective. And by finding common ground, the University of Minnesota will remain an educational beacon that bridges divides and paves the way to a brighter future.

Whether you are a federally sponsored researcher facing a stop-work order, or a staff member supporting students with visa status concerns, we are dedicated to navigating these changes, all while maintaining an unwavering commitment to teaching, research and outreach.

To our students, faculty and staff who may feel undervalued, disrespected or voiceless, I want you to know you are not alone. Regardless of your race, gender identity, disability, citizenship status, sexual orientation, or political or religious beliefs, you belong here at the University of Minnesota. We are stronger, wiser and more effective in our mission with all of you.

You play an invaluable role in our community, and I am committed to ensuring you feel welcomed and protected. I hear your concerns, value your input and will continue to advocate for your freedoms, your safety and your wellbeing.

Actions speak louder than words. To that end, the University will continue to support and advocate for your rights to peaceful protest and the free expression of diverse viewpoints, as referenced on the civic responsibilities webpage. This University has a rich history and commitment to free expression that dates back 174 years, and so it is our shared responsibility to uphold these core values.

The University will take decisive action to end any and all forms of harassment, intimidation and bias against members of our community. Each of us must stand in firm opposition to harassment, intimidation and bias, and prevent their recurrence.

When we improve our systems to reduce harassment and intimidation of any one group, it aids in the prevention and bias toward other groups. All boats rise when bias and intimidation are appropriately addressed. And it will take every single one of us, working together, to foster a healthy, supportive community that we can be proud of.

We are one of America’s leading public research universities, thanks in large part to how our schools, colleges and campuses have embraced students, faculty, staff and collaborators from all parts of the world. The University of Minnesota will not waver in its support of international students and scholars, who will continue to play a vital role in our success. 

For our international students, faculty and staff who have questions about how the University will support them and their efforts, I would encourage you to visit our Rapid Response website for updated information. The weekly updates from our colleagues at International Student and Scholar Services also provide important resources.

My leadership team and I continue to loudly champion the critical role and value of our University—from St. Paul to Washington, D.C.—so that your voices are heard and your efforts are widely promoted. And we will continue to partner with higher education associations, like the Association of American Universities, to address the legality of federal directives that impact our powerful public service mission.

Having connected with students, faculty and staff in recent weeks, I stand with you amid the fear, uncertainty and anxiety. This is unfortunately a time when we all must learn to live with ambiguity as we maneuver these challenges together. I cannot promise to have all the answers, but I can commit to being transparent and actively engaging with our community on tough issues.

We are stronger as a collective. And we will emerge from this time of uncertainty across higher education better than before.

Rebecca Cunningham
President