Dear Members of the Monmouth University Community:
Recent Supreme Court decisions have undoubtedly raised questions regarding the changing landscape of higher education. Though the Court’s decisions to ban race-conscious affirmative action, limit student loan forgiveness, and allow potential discrimination against the LGBTQIA+ community present hurdles, I firmly believe that institutions of higher education will continue to play a vital role in advancing social progress for generations to come.
In particular, some may have questions about how these decisions affect Monmouth’s continuing commitment to cultivating diversity, building an accessible education, and supporting underrepresented communities. I want to take this opportunity to reaffirm our unwavering dedication to the principles of excellence and access, which are bedrock principles of our institution.
First and foremost, diversity remains a cornerstone of our educational philosophy. We recognize that a diverse campus community fosters inclusivity, broadens perspectives, and enriches the educational experience for all. In fact, I believe we cannot truly claim excellence without also being accessible and inclusive. While the specific policies that have been banned in the courts have not been our institutional practice, we will continue to build strategic pipelines into our university, actively recruit from diverse school districts, and ensure equal opportunity for all who choose Monmouth.
And, while the Supreme Court’s ruling on potential LGBTQIA+ discrimination is disheartening, we want to assure you that our commitment to fostering an inclusive and accepting environment remains steadfast. We stand firmly against discrimination in all its forms and believe that everyone should be treated with dignity and respect. We will actively work to strengthen our support systems, provide critical resources, and promote an environment where acceptance and dignity prevail.
Our institution was founded on the principles of access, and through our first ninety years our commitment to building a community that reflects the vibrant tapestry of society remains unwavering. As we look to the future, I call upon the entire university community—students, faculty, staff, and alumni—to join in upholding these core values. Together, we can continue to build a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive institution that empowers and prepares our students for success in an ever-changing world.
Sincerely,
Dr. Patrick F. Leahy
President