President Holmes-Sullivan Joins Hundreds of College Presidents Opposing Undue Government Interference in Higher Ed

A public letter titled A Call for Constructive Engagement, was issued on April 22, 2025 by the American Association of Colleges and Universities to call attention to “unprecedented government overreach and political interference now endangering American higher education.”

The presidents of Lewis & Clark, Willamette University, Reed College, Chemeketa Community College, Portland State University, and University of Portland have signed in support.

“Lewis & Clark recognizes the value that educational institutions like ours bring to Portland, to Oregon, and to the nation,” President Holmes-Sullivan told Oregon Public Broadcasting. “As a collaborative leader, I know it is especially important that institutions join together as we work to ensure we can continue to serve students and communities.”

The American Association of Colleges and Universities is a global membership organization dedicated to advancing the democratic purposes of higher education by promoting equity, innovation, and excellence in liberal education. Through its programs and events, publications and research, public advocacy and campus-based projects, the organization serves as a catalyst and facilitator for innovations that improve educational quality and equity and that support the success of all students.