Dear Faculty Colleagues,

With the ongoing negotiations in Washington over issues that will affect the economy and undoubtedly our own institution, the university’s leadership has been fully engaged in planning for what is a most uncertain time. While the university’s financial and academic health is strong, there is little doubt that whatever the resolution that emerges from Washington, Vanderbilt and its peer institutions will be faced with short and long-term consequences.

Chancellor Zeppos and his leadership team have been planning for various scenarios, particularly one in which federal research funding is likely to be reduced. As faculty, you are the university’s greatest resource, and I assure you we are working to ensure that your critical work in teaching and research will continue at the highest levels. Because of your efforts over the past few years, we have been able to position our finances in a conservative manner, allowing us to continue to strategically invest in our academic programs.

The chancellor has addressed the current situation in a message to the Vanderbilt community, which can be found on the university’s homepage. Thank you for all your support over the past few years of economic uncertainty, and I am confident that together we will continue to address future challenges.

Sincerely,

Richard McCarty

Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs