Dear Lafayette Community,
I write to share my thoughts about the campus discussions of the past week and today’s communication from the Board of Trustees.
I recognize that many are troubled about divisions within the Lafayette community and the future of our beloved College. I am humbled by the statement of support by our Board of Trustees, and also by the many of you—faculty, staff, students, alumni, and parents—who have reached out with words of encouragement and care.
At the same time, I recognize that there are decisions that I and my team could have approached differently. As a community of educators, we seek to learn from these experiences, and I always welcome your comments and feedback as we strive to make this College strong in service to our students and the community. I have carefully read the motion of the faculty and its supporting documents. While I disagree with many of the assertions put forward in the motion, some of which I addressed at Tuesday’s meeting, I know that the concerns come from people who are deeply committed to this College and its future.
Despite our disagreements, we share the common bond of caring for Lafayette. It is from this place of shared purpose that I invite us to move forward together.
In that spirit, I am encouraged that we are formally initiating constructive conversations between faculty, administration, and Trustees that will intentionally ensure the College maintains its strong commitment to shared governance and rightful standing as one of the best liberal arts colleges in the country.
The College is strong across its finances, enrollment, academic programs, and planning efforts. Even from this position of strength, however, we also face the many challenges the rest of higher education does. We will only thrive in our third century if we face these challenges together.
Though there are obstacles ahead, I am extremely optimistic about the future of Lafayette College. As I told the faculty this week, my optimism comes from what I know to be true after my three and a half years as your president.
I know and respect the power, dedication, and excellence of our world-class faculty, who are exceptional teacher-scholars and provide invaluable service to the College. I am grateful both to our long-serving faculty who have built this vibrant institution, and to our new colleagues who are bringing their talents and scholarship to their classrooms, research, and creative activities.
I know the commitment of our talented staff who support our campus community, from caring for the well-being of our students and staff to the stewardship of our technology, buildings, and grounds so we can deliver a world-class education.
I know the curiosity, passion, and creativity of our students, who are prepared by our dedicated faculty and staff to live lives of impact, transformed by the education they receive here.
I know the deep pride and commitment held by our Trustees and the more than 30,000 alumni who think of Lafayette as a place to lift up, invest in, and call home.
And finally, I know that, when we come together, we are a beacon in these challenging times—an inspiring exemplar of the power of a liberal arts education.
I look forward to what we will do together.
On Lafayette!
President Nicole Hurd