Roosevelt University

Dear Roosevelt Community,

In a letter I sent last week Tuesday, February 11, the university community was informed about our proactive approach to recent executive orders from The White House by creating several Presidential Rapid Response Task Forces. While the task forces have been underway addressing and assessing the potential impacts of these executive orders, I thought it important to update you as new federal policies emerge that affect our university.

Late Friday evening, February 14, the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights issued a Dear Colleague Letter prohibiting race-based programming and spending at universities. The letter states that universities not in compliance within 14 days may face federal investigation and potential loss of funding, which is very concerning.

80 years ago, Roosevelt was founded on the principles of courage, acceptance and a commitment to social justice. We value differences in personal experiences and will continue to work to remove barriers to success and ensure access to higher education. As a community at Roosevelt, we are committed to promoting mutual understanding and making every student, faculty and staff member feel like they belong.

The Presidential Rapid Response Task Forces are actively assessing how this federal directive may affect Roosevelt and will provide updates and recommendations to inform decisions. I am also making it my personal commitment to work with state and federal policymakers to advocate for policies that benefit our University.

This is indeed a challenging time and I encourage each of us to consider how we might engage and support one another. We will continue to keep you informed and I thank you for your ongoing work and commitment to Roosevelt University.

With Warm Regards,

Ali R. Malekzadeh, PhD
President