September 5, 2024
Dear members of the Conn community,
As we begin the new academic year, I wish to share the following decision I have made regarding my role as spokesperson for Connecticut College in relation to national and world events.
Leading an institution of higher education is both a great privilege and a great responsibility. When I speak as the president of Connecticut College, my words, even if not so intended, may understandably be construed as representing the views of our entire Conn community. Yet one of the great strengths of our community – and critical to our mission as an institution of higher education – is being exposed to a diversity of viewpoints and being able to articulate one’s own. Thus, even when I might feel compelled to speak out on political, social and other events, to do so would be both presumptuous and exclusionary.
Rather than speaking for Conn, I contend that my primary responsibility in response to domestic and global events is two-fold: to foster a learning community of free inquiry and free expression where everyone can develop their own ideas and opinions, and to provide support to those members of our community impacted by such events. Please know that a lack of a statement does not equate to indifference, especially in terms of the impact of such events on members of our community and human suffering. I am always willing to listen and support all members of Conn. In fact, that very concern for and commitment to the well-being of every member of Conn is the primary reason I will not issue institutional statements in response to domestic and world events as a general practice.
That said, I do believe it is appropriate for me to use my voice – thoughtfully, passionately, persuasively – on matters related to our fundamental educational objectives. Now more than ever, it is imperative that leaders of institutions of higher education advocate for the critical role of a liberal arts education in transforming lives and sustaining our increasingly fragile democracy. Accordingly, I will make public statements, for example, on issues such as the challenges facing higher education or efforts that threaten our autonomy as a private college or accessibility to a Conn education.
In alignment with my dual responsibilities to sustain our mission and our community, as noted in my previous email, deans Danielle Egan, Victor Arcelus and Erika Smith are working collaboratively with others to develop programming and resources this semester. Re-engaging with Mediators Beyond Borders International is one facet of that work. Another is creating opportunities for positive connection and civil discourse. I encourage all members of our community, especially those with expertise in particular domestic and world events, to help build our capacity to engage in meaningful dialogue and deepen our understanding of these events. Finally, I do expect that, regardless of differences, we are always respectful in our engagement with one another and that we abide by our freedom of expression guidelines and policies.
Sincerely,
Andrea E. Chapdelaine, Ph.D.
President