The university’s president, Richard Helldobler, sent a letter on Monday addressing concerns about recent executive orders and federal directives. President Helldobler assures students and staff that “what should not be in doubt, however, is William Paterson University’s commitment to educating and supporting our students the best way we know how.

This letter mainly focused on orders impacting higher education’s DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) efforts. 

This wave of confusion and outrage started on Feb. 14, when the Department of Education released a letter warning public schools and universities that engaging in DEI practices could result in losing federal funding. This directive, coupled with larger national efforts touching upon immigration and LGBTQIA+ rights, raises critical questions about the future of DEI programs in Universities such as William Paterson. 

However, the letter speaks on the instability of enforcing these new orders. A federal judge temporarily blocked key elements of the administration’s effort to curtail DEI programs, suggesting that these measures may face significant hurdles in court. The judge’s ruling emphasized that plaintiffs—comprising education and labor groups—are likely to succeed in arguing that such policies violate free speech protections.

Nevertheless, Helldobler ends his letter by emphasizing the University’s perseverance in continuing “learning and teaching, supporting our students, and supporting one another.” Both statements were bolded and painted with positive reinforcement and reassurance for what the future holds. 

Despite the legal battles ahead, Helldobler said the university is dedicated to fostering an inclusive academic environment.