Friday Focus: Serving all students

A man with glasses wearing a UAF ballcap, a brown suit jacket, a white button-up shirt, and a blue paisley tie while outside.
UAF photo by Eric Engman
Chancellor Dan White

Feb. 28, 2025

— By Dan White, chancellor

Last week’s by the Board of Regents (BoR) has sparked dialogue throughout the UAF community. While I have heard concerns voiced about how the motion may impact the institution’s values of academic freedom and freedom of expression, the wording of the motion specifically reaffirmed the BoR’s commitment to both.

I want to acknowledge the impact this change has had on many of you. I also appreciate the time and effort many of you have taken to email me thoughtful messages about how the motion lands for you. And while I have not responded to all, I have read them.

Many of the letters I have received express anxiety about the speed of the move. I don’t speak for the board, but I do want to draw attention to the fact that their decision comes at a time of very fast moving and significant redirection from the federal government. While we are not a federal agency, federal financial aid and federal grants and contracts make up the largest portion of our budget.

The most impactful recent development was from the Department of Education in the form of a “” that all universities in the country received several weeks ago. It included a deadline of Feb. 28 for the removal of DEI language and programs from universities writ large. According to the letter, universities not in compliance with this requirement by Feb. 28 (today) will not receive federal financial aid, a significant source of tuition support for our students and our university. And so while the pace of change feels challenging, it is important to recognize that the BoR must also make decisions it deems in the best long term interest of the university in the time afforded to it.

Many of you have worked hard to build an environment where everyone feels valued and created a true sense of belonging at UAF. Thank you. That work should continue! Other universities made this change one or more years ago. Others are facing the same adjustments we are making. Together, we continue to commit to success for all students.

I recognize that the phrase, “success for all students” does not resonate with those who feel like “all students” does not mean them. To be clear — when we say all students, we mean it. Every student at UAF is valued, and every student belongs here.

I understand that words matter. But words don’t define us. We are defined by what we do and the way we treat and support others. Each member of this community brings experiences, perspectives and cultures that make this university what it is. That does not change.

Thank you.