Throughout the last months, the Department of Justice has pressured University President Jim Ryan to step down, alleging that the University had violated a federal order to dismantle diversity, equity and inclusion programs. This was an unprecedented and invasive ultimatum — lose vital federal funding for the University, or resign. Yesterday, Ryan submitted his resignation to the Board of Visitors, putting an end to his tenure of seven years and choosing to put the longevity of the institution and the security of its students above his own job.
As the six students who make up this Editorial Board, we mourn the resignation of an iconic University leader and condemn the unprecedented circumstances which forced him into it. We are also furious at the gross manipulation of federal power which has overstepped due process, invaded the most powerful corners of our institution and violated any semblance of institutional autonomy.
Regardless of personal politics, the sudden nature of Ryan’s resignation was a shocking blow to all students. For the first time in students’ living memory, the University — the state’s flagship institution — is without a stable figurehead. Without a seasoned leader who can defend against further federal intervention, the University community understandably fears what awaits this institution.
Ryan was a president whose name was known around Grounds — a president who tangibly executed a deep commitment to economic accessibility and enacted compassion in every corner of this institution by regularly opening himself and his home to the student community. Although perfection is far from any University president’s record, Ryan carved out a legacy which is characterized by equity for a new generation of first-generation low-income students, support for student self-governance, relentless adherence to academic freedom and a myriad of other elements which profoundly improved this space. His absence will be felt, especially during this tumultuous time when his principled leadership was more important than ever.
It would be one thing, perhaps, if due process had been followed, and if Ryan had been asked to resign through traditional and well-established means. However, this was not the case. Rather, in a sign of complete and dangerous disregard for established processes, the federal government baselessly demanded Ryan’s resignation.
The University is the first institution to lose their president as a result of dramatic and unprecedented federal intervention. But we will not be the last — it is certain that the Trump administration will continue to blatantly disregard academic freedom and autonomy, instead choosing to dangerously involve themselves in the inner workings of institutions they know little about and care little for.
Our state’s motto defies tyranny, and our University’s culture lauds democratic self-governance. It is high time for other universities, states and elected officials to recognize that verbal disapproval is no longer enough. They have a responsibility to act and ensure that Ryan’s resignation is the last horrifying act of the Trump administration's unwarranted and unfounded battle against higher education.
The Cavalier Daily Editorial Board is composed of the Executive Editor, the Editor-in-Chief, the two Opinion Editors, a Senior Associate and an Opinion Columnist. The board can be reached at eb@cavalierdaily.com.
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