The University faces reputational challenges and great uncertainty due to recent federal policy changes and institutional responses. As alumni, we recognize the importance of preserving the respect and standing our University has built over more than two centuries. Moving forward, however, we believe today’s challenges can indeed be transformed into tomorrow’s opportunities, affording us a precious chance during this period of transition to strengthen academic governance while upholding the University’s core mission and commitment to excellence.
First, we acknowledge and applaud the racial diversity of the membership of the named Special Committee on the Nomination of a President. Having six Black persons is an unexpected improvement over past search committees of this stature and importance. Although their cultural, economic, and political perspective may vary, it is noteworthy to recognize such due to the historical exclusion of people of color in academic leadership.
Second, we believe that the charge of the Committee to make recommendations to the Board of Visitors requires a sincere intentionality to foster equity throughout the process. The entire university community — alumni, donors, faculty, staff and students — must have access to Committee members. We are hopeful that there will be full:
1. Transparency, as allowed by policy and law
2. Engagement to ensure opportunities for advice, feedback and ideas
3. Communication that is up-to-date, comprehensive and direct
Third, we understand that the Committee will not make the decision to hire the 10th president of the University. However, the Committee can set a civil environment and reflect the urgent need to install a visionary leader who is courageous, just and kind.
As alumni who continue to support the University during the good and tough times, we are mindful of how easy we can all fall prey to the belief that things will just work out. As K.A. Porter states, “The past is never where you think you left it.” Thus, we take note, pay attention, speak out and move towards that which is moral and honorable.
The statement is signed by nine members of the Ubunye alumni interest group and are listed below. They can be reached at opinion@cavalierdaily.
The opinions expressed in this guest letter are not necessarily those of The Cavalier Daily. The guest letter represents the views of the signatories alone.
Deborah Stroman, PhD (Educ ‘82), President
Rodney Rhodes (Batten ’23), Co-President
Milla Ciprian (Col ’22), Corresponding Secretary
Mona Edwards (Col ’79), University Governance
Paul Harris, PhD (Educ ’01), Academics
Donna Johnson, Esq. (Col ’83), Recording Secretary
Jonathan Morgan, PhD (Col ’91) Academics
Robert Smith (Col ’83), University Governance
Chéla Wallace (Col ’06), Academics
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