In an update from Vanderbilt, the university didn’t accept of reject the Compact, but instead it plans to provide feedback, according to Chancellor Daniel Diermeier.
“Since the compact could directly affect our teaching, research and other operations, our policy of institutional neutrality not only permits comment by the university’s leadership, it encourages it,” Diermeier said. “Therefore, Vanderbilt will continue to share our point of view with the administration, just as we have previously shared our perspective at the local, state and federal level — most recently regarding the tax on university endowments and proposed restrictions on visas for international students.”
Diermeier also discussed the importance of academic freedom, free expression and merit-based research awards in his email and mentioned that community input continues to be invaluable in the process of responding to the compact.
Since the compact was sent to Vanderbilt almost three weeks ago, students, faculty and community members have created petitions, organized rallies and passed resolutions expressing their opinions on whether Vanderbilt should sign the compact.
“We look forward to continuing the conversation — on our campus and with leaders in government and higher education — as we work toward our shared goal of restoring public trust in higher education and ensuring that America’s universities remain the best in the world,” Diermeier said.