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On April 17, Chancellor Martin shared a message with WashU students, faculty and staff about community expectations that included the following comments, which reflect the university’s ongoing position regarding demonstrations on campus. Our commitment to free expression remains unwavering, but as our Demonstrations and Disruption Policy states, activity that disrupts university functions is not permitted and is […]

Dear students, faculty, and staff, At WashU, our strong sense of community is a defining characteristic.  We are widely known for our collaborative and supportive culture, one in which we all want to see each other succeed and thrive.  This is what sets us apart from our peers and makes us special. In the past […]

In December, we wrote to you about a despicable act of vandalism on our campus. The investigation is continuing, but we wanted to provide our campus community with an update at this time on the status of the investigation and the mural itself.

I for one am proud of the immense progress we are making to invest in industries that align so closely with our mission, with a strong tendency to shy away from those that might serve to detract from it.  And moving forward, we will continue to make even greater strides to invest in businesses with positive ESG practices. Because of the nature of our partnership with WUIMC, their long-term horizon approach to investment, as well as their engagement model, we’re confident we will continue on this path. 

During this time, I urge each member of our community to see one another’s humanity and to extend compassion and empathy to those most impacted.  Our institutional strength lies in our diversity and the essential qualities of affirmation, equity, and inclusion — and it is especially important during times like these that we embody and model these values.  

This week especially, I want to touch on that last part: Gratitude.  I believe gratitude is something we don’t give out enough in our current social context.  To me, it’s an important starting point as we think about shifting our own personal experiences and the experiences of our communities and society writ-large.  That said, I can think of several things for which I’m particularly grateful this year. One of the biggest ones being you — our Washington University community. 

As almost a month has passed since inauguration, I believe now is the time to share the next steps for our path forward together.  Those next steps involve a bold and transformative strategic planning process that will take place over the course of the next two calendar years. 

As your 15th Chancellor, I am deeply committed to leading with transparency, approachability, accountability, and data-driven decision making.  To that end, I am sharing the entire report, in its full, unadulterated form. I feel this is important for several reasons. First, to walk-the-talk and be fully transparent.  Second, to allow all of us to learn through this process. And, finally, to respect the input so many of you provided and empower continued dialogue. It is very important to me that each of you feels – and knows – that you have a seat at the table.