Restrained Institutional Speech—But Not Silence—and Expanded Transparency
Preview:
When I go to Washington, I not only speak about the endowment but also invite questions from legislators about Princeton and other universities. Many have questions about topics such as free speech, antisemitism, and political bias. I am proud of the campus climate at Princeton, and I believe strongly in the value and quality of American colleges and universities more generally. I welcome the opportunity to talk about them. Rarely, if ever, has it been so important for university presidents to speak up for higher education. It is also, of course, an unusually fraught time for university presidents to make statements. Critics pore over presidential messages looking for errors, bias, or other rhetorical sins.
Originally published: January 29, 2025
Author: Christopher L. Eisgruber
Position: President
Institution: Princeton University
Published by: President's Office