Office of the Registrar

From: University Vice Presidents and Vice Provosts

Dear OSU Community Members:

As we learn more about significant policy proposals and administrative changes at the federal level, university leaders and subject matter experts are working diligently to review executive actions and provide guidance to university stakeholders. This work, which we undertake with any new administration, began before election day with university experts across a range of mission areas gathering information to plan for how the university will adjust or respond to any potential impacts on university funding, operations, policies or commitments.

While this work is ongoing, the following information and resources can be shared in response to several recent executive actions announced this week.

OSU’s mission is to promote economic, social, cultural and environmental progress for all

For more than one-hundred and fifty years, OSU has advanced its land grant mission to broaden pathways to higher education for learners, pursue innovative research to solve the world’s biggest problems and engage communities throughout the state, nation and world to expand prosperity for all. Core to this mission is the university’s commitment to inclusive excellence, an understanding of the value of incorporating all voices and multiple perspectives in all we do.

Faculty should consult with the Division of Research and Innovation regarding changes to federal awards

In response to several executive orders, federal agencies have begun sending notices to principal investigators and administrators related to grants and contract requirements. Principal investigators and administrators are encouraged to contact the Division of Research and Innovation at [email protected] with questions prior to taking any action related to federally funded grants.

OSU follows Oregon’s Sanctuary Promise Laws

Consistent with its commitment to success for all students, OSU supports and values international students, students with DACA and undocumented students. OSU complies with all federal and state laws related to immigration, including Oregon’s Sanctuary Promise Laws. Questions about immigration matters should be directed to the Office of International Services. It is OSU’s standard practice to refer all federal immigration enforcement officials and related inquiries to the OSU Office of the General Counsel at (541) 737-2474. Do not respond to a request for immigration information without consulting with the Office of the General Counsel.

Discrimination and harassment based on protected classes are prohibited

OSU steadfastly supports the success all OSU community members, including students, employees and university stakeholders who belong to the LGBTQ community. Under state and federal laws and regulations, the university prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin (including ancestry and ethnicity), citizenship, marital or family status, pregnancy or related conditions, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status / service in the uniformed service, or any other status protected by law or OSU policy. Individuals experiencing concerns of discrimination and harassment based on any protected status are encouraged to reach out to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access for information on their resources, rights and options. Employees must promptly report concerns that they become aware of to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access.

OSU offers many resources to support students and employees

Employees seeking support in navigating this transition are encouraged to engage supportive mental health and other resources through Lyra Health.

We encourage students to consult the many well-being resources available through OSU.

We value and will continue to incorporate the diversity of experiences and perspectives across the university as we reconcile the potential impacts of federal polices and legislation with OSU values and policy and Oregon law.

Sincerely,

Kevin Dougherty and Stephen Jenkins, Co-Acting Vice Provosts for Student Affairs

Alix Gitelman, Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs

Becca Gose, Vice President and General Counsel

Heather Horn, Vice Provost for Human Resources

Irem Tumer, Vice President for Research and Innovation

Scott Vignos, Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer