Dear Colleagues,
As you may be aware, recent federal executive orders and federal agency communications are signaling a change in our academic environment, requiring us to take stock of our practices. In addition to the NIH issues, which everyone has collectively been working together to address in as proactive a manner as possible amidst ongoing uncertainty, institutions of higher education have also considered a letter and further guidance from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights that require us to assess our environment and ensure that our practices are in compliance with applicable law.
Institutions across the country have been dealing with this and, at the same time, we have been working with the UT System, as well as our other UT institutions, to both understand and address these changes.
We are addressing two primary areas:
Sponsored Projects: The University of Tennessee Health Science Center remains committed to keeping faculty, staff, and students informed about federal actions impacting our research enterprise, particularly those affecting federally funded projects. In response to recent executive orders, federal agencies are issuing specific directives such as stop-work orders, communication pauses, and temporary suspensions of proposal submissions and solicitations.
To assist our researchers in navigating these updates, a Research Central Hub has been created on the UT System Intranet. This resource will offer timely information on current and emerging developments affecting federally sponsored research projects.
In addition, our Office of Research has implemented several strategies to keep our campus community informed, to ensure open communication, provide updates, and address concerns. These include 1) weekly meetings with research representatives from each college and the Faculty Senate Research Committee chair, 2) group meetings as requested by departments, colleges, or divisions, and 3) weekly office hours in the Office of Research.
We would like to thank all our research colleagues for their professionalism in the face of all the uncertainties. We understand this is a stressful time for many and we appreciate you working with us as we navigate these challenging times.
Non-discrimination: We also continue to work closely with the UT System Office of General Counsel to determine necessary adjustments to comply with federal directives on non-discrimination. These important decisions are being approached thoughtfully and diligently.
The Board of Trustees adopted a statement of aspirations at their last meeting which guides us as we move forward.
We are dedicated to expanding access to educational opportunities, striving to remove barriers, and making academic pursuits more affordable. Consistent with the University’s commitment to high academic standards, student achievement, and the preparation of responsible citizens, we believe that engaging with individuals from all backgrounds and perspectives fosters a vibrant learning environment that enhances critical thinking and intellectual growth. Our collective strengths make us stronger, and we are committed to promoting an atmosphere where all members of the University community feel welcome, can thrive, and achieve success.
In all matters related to sponsored research and non-discrimination, our goal is to protect our community, uphold academic freedom, and be cognizant of the Social Determinants of Health that impact clinical care and that also form part of our training of tomorrow’s workforce, while complying with the law and responding appropriately to guidance from funding agencies and federal offices.
We recognize this period of uncertainty is challenging. As we work through these areas together, we appreciate your support in looking at our processes and internal and external communications. Thank you for your continued dedication as we remain true to our mission and support our students, colleagues, and our patients.
Respectfully,
