[Important Information for Employees] A Commitment to Academic Freedom and Constructive Engagement

[Office of the President]

Dear Campus Community,

Yesterday, I joined more than 200 college and university presidents in
signing A Call for Constructive Engagement, a national statement released
by the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U). This
effort, developed in collaboration with the American Academy of Arts and
Sciences, reflects a shared commitment among higher education leaders to
affirm the vital role of colleges and universities in American life.

The statement calls attention to the growing tension between federal
government actions and the core values of higher education, especially
academic freedom, open inquiry, and institutional autonomy. It is the first
time in recent history that so many sitting college presidents have spoken
with a unified voice on these issues.

The message is clear: We support meaningful reform and responsible
oversight, but we stand firmly against efforts that politicize or
compromise the foundational freedoms that allow higher education to thrive.
As the statement reads, “We speak with one voice against the unprecedented
government overreach and political interference now endangering American
higher education.”

At SUNY Plattsburgh, we believe in the power of education to inform,
elevate, and transform. Our mission calls us to prepare students for
meaningful lives as engaged citizens. That mission is only possible in an
environment where inquiry is protected, diverse perspectives are welcomed,
and institutional decisions are made with integrity.

The full AAC&U statement and a list of signatories can be found here:
www.aacu.org/constructive-engagement.
Sincerely,
Dr. Alexander Enyedi
President
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