Announcements & Current Issues
American Democracy Project
In this interconnected and diverse world, it is the responsibility of colleges and universities to help prepare graduates to become engaged citizens who recognize themselves as members of a larger social fabric, understand democratic processes, and take action when appropriate. To address this issue, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) initiated the American Democracy Project (ADP). Examination of the activities envisioned for the project showed that WWU was already deeply involved in the concept. Therefore, I am pleased to announce Western Washington University’s participation in this project, aimed at promoting the involvement of undergraduates in public life. Nationwide, 180 institutions are involved.
This academic year, there will be many events and programs - both existing and new, sponsored by students, faculty and staff - dedicated to the ADP at Western. A curriculum for one of the FIG clusters and a number of other activities to enhance students’ understanding of civic responsibility are being developed. I strongly encourage you to participate in these programs to help WWU foster the civic engagement of our students and campus community. Our ADP maintains a website that includes a calendar of activities.
Patriot Act
In light of articles and resolutions concerning the Patriot Act, I want to assure the university community that Western Washington University has policies and practices in place that protect the privacy of student and personnel records, as well as constitutional rights and civil liberties of the members of the university community. Resolutions passed by the Associated Students in October 2003 and by the Faculty Senate resolution on February 23, 2004 reinforce the policies and practices we have been following to date. All personnel receiving requests (or demands) from Federal agencies will continue to refer them to the Assistant Attorney General for Western Washington University for careful review.
To date, there have been no requests for information under the Patriot Act. The university will continue to ensure its priority commitment to privacy and confidentiality whenever possible, in compliance with federal and state law and the U.S. Constitution. For further information, see my memo on the university's response to requests under the Patriot Act.
Freedom of Expression
On January 30, 2003, I issued a statement about freedom of expression within a framework of civility and respect for the rights of others -- a basic tenet of dialogue within a university setting. I want to reiterate the points I made then, which continue to be relevant.
I encourage consideration of how we respond individually and as a community to the challenges we face, in light of the fundamental traditions of free expression and respect for divergent views. I urge the campus community to study the crucial issues that confront us; participate to an even greater extent in dialogues about them; and exercise freedom of expression in keeping with the highest tradition of a university community. Few are dispassionate about issues presented by the war in Iraq and by the war against terrorism. As President of Western, I commit that this university will continue to protect the freedom of students, staff and faculty to hold and conduct civil discussion of divergent views about controversial subjects and local, national and international issues.
For other news releases, consult the WWU Public Information Web Page.