Dear UVM community,
This week’s Inclusive Excellence Symposium, Healing through Hope, inspired us with positive messages of resilience and hope that resonate deeply in challenging times and remind us that we all win when we lift up all members of our community.
On Tuesday, Dr. Khalid el-Hakim reminded us of the marching for justice that Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King led as a mobilizer for good. Students from Colchester High School were in the audience experiencing an important moment in history and witnessing UVM’s commitment to inclusive education. On Wednesday, Tasleem Jamila Firdausee wowed us with her poetry as she challenged us to reclaim laughter, practice gratitude, consider the heart as the center of intellect, and to recognize our vast interconnectedness. Thursday, Valarie Kaur called on us to be sage warriors to fight for humanity but reminded us that revolutionary love requires us to listen to our opponents to understand their thinking and tend to the wound we feel. The week ends with Sonny Singh’s exploration of the Sikh concept of chardi kala, which challenges us to aspire to an optimistic, resilient, and joyful mindset. To do that we need fierce determination and a strong will to persevere. I am grateful that openness to these ideas and the embodiment of these qualities is evident in our UVM community.
Actions by the executive branch of the federal government continue to cause concerns for our community. The substantial changes in the Department of Education raise serious questions about the potential impact, including our financial aid process for students. Our Enrollment Management leaders and Student Financial Services are monitoring this situation carefully. Another point of concern is a possible travel ban. We have advised our international students that, while no definitive information is available regarding potential restrictions, it is essential for them to consult with the Office of International Education prior to making plans for travel outside the U.S. We are also examining the budget impact of the likely January 2026 reduction in Facilities and Administration (F&A) funds the university receives from the federal government. These funds support the university’s broad administrative and physical infrastructure that enables research.
We would all like immediate and definitive answers regarding how a particular federal action is going to affect us. While there are no clear answers, we continue to carefully review each action, consider potential impacts on our community, and monitor its ongoing status. As individual citizens you can write a letter to your state and federal representatives and senators giving specific examples of the positive impact education and research at UVM make on the economic development of the state and workforce preparation.
During this time of uncertainty, it is also important to access the available resources we have outlined on our Federal Actions webpage. For example, the section on Subpoenas, Warrants, Government Agent, and Law Enforcement Visits can answer questions about a potential ICE appearance on campus.
Education and information are powerful tools. Two upcoming information sessions might be of interest to you. We will have a virtual and in-person discussion on immigration issues, including a possible travel ban, on March 25. UVM’s international education leaders will share information, address concerns, and answer questions. There will also be a virtual webinar on March 28 from noon to 1 p.m. This event, organized by our Operations Teams for Federal Response, is a good opportunity to hear from leadership about evolving situations related to executive actions, how they could affect UVM, and what we can do to prepare and respond.
It was so energizing this week to watch our women’s basketball team knock off top-seeded Albany to capture the America East championship and punch its ticket to the NCAA tournament. March Madness has become an annual source of excitement at UVM these past few years, and I’m thrilled that we get to cheer on our beloved Cats when they take on NC State tomorrow at 2 p.m. I never tire of our rallying cry: Go, Cats, go!
To close, I want to extend my congratulations to Dr. Marlene Tromp on her appointment as the 28th president of the university. This is a special place filled with exceptional people, and leading it is a true privilege. I wish her every success.
We are entering the home stretch of our spring semester and academic year. Let’s lift each other up and finish strong together.
Warmly,
Patricia Prelock
Interim President