University leadership at the University of Chicago has responded to an open letter from faculty members expressing concerns about privacy and student issues. The university reaffirmed its dedication to free expression, open inquiry, and the well-being of its community, as guided by the Kalven Report and the Chicago Principles.
The university emphasized that it has policies in place to protect student and employee information under FERPA. It clarified that it does not monitor or report activities based on immigration status unless legally required. Furthermore, the University of Chicago Police Department does not participate in immigration enforcement or release information on immigration status to law enforcement agencies unless mandated by law.
Questions have arisen regarding recent federal actions and their potential effects on the research community. The university is actively planning for various scenarios related to these developments and will provide updates directly to those affected as more details become available.
The university reiterated its commitment to academic freedom and free expression, ensuring that campus remains a venue for open debate of ideas.