The University recently shared a draft of its core values, aiming to clarify its mission and direction. This announcement follows months of discussions sparked by concerns over the University’s stance on various issues, especially regarding divestment.
The draft outlines four main values: the pursuit of knowledge, academic freedom, commitment to diversity, and mutual respect within the university community. Importantly, it notes that the University will not advocate on issues that fall outside its main mission.
A key part of the discussion centers on the “core function test.” This means that for the University to take a public position on an issue, the topic must significantly relate to its academic or operational roles. However, passing this test does not compel the University to speak out. Decision-makers must also consider the potential impacts of their statements.
This process of defining values kicked off after the Brown Corporation, the University’s main governing body, rejected a proposal to divest from companies tied to the Israeli military. A committee had previously recommended against divestment, highlighting confusion about what the University stands for in terms of its values.
James Kellner, the chair of the committee and a professor at the University, explained that during the divestment debate, community members had different interpretations of the University’s values. By setting clear core institutional values, the University aims to provide a framework for its future decisions and actions.
Kellner emphasized that the goal isn’t to dictate individual beliefs but to establish values that reflect the University’s mission and history. These values are meant to guide how all members of the Brown community conduct themselves.
To create this draft, the committee looked back at the University’s rich history and foundational documents, including its mission statement. They want to ensure these values resonate with the community.
The committee is seeking feedback from students, faculty, and alumni to refine the draft. There will be opportunities for discussion through virtual town halls and online feedback forms. They plan to update the statement based on the responses before presenting it for a vote later this spring.
Engagement is crucial, according to Kellner. The community’s input will play a significant role in shaping how these values are understood and applied in everyday decision-making at the University.
This open approach is encouraging, considering a recent survey showed that 65% of students feel unsure about the University’s position on various social issues. Feedback from the community can bridge that gap. Ultimately, while the University is defining its values now, it will rely on its members to interpret their implications within their lives and responsibilities moving forward.
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