Academic values and The Pearson Institute

To: Pearson Institute Faculty, Fellows, Scholars and Staff
From: Daniel Diermeier, Provost
Subject: Academic values and The Pearson Institute
Date: March 7, 2018

 

Since the University’s founding in 1890, the intellectual community at the University of Chicago has been renowned for its commitment to intense inquiry, rigorous analysis, and diversity of perspectives. In recruiting faculty members, we seek scholars who are making original contributions to their fields, who demonstrate intellectual leadership, and who are dedicated to our mission of research, education and impact. While this work often has broad relevance beyond the University, decisions about curricula, faculty hiring and academic values are the sole purview of the University and its faculty, following the principles of academic freedom that our colleagues and predecessors have helped define over 128 years.

 

These qualities have characterized The Pearson Institute since its inception in 2015. Since that time, the Institute’s leadership, its faculty, students and staff have created a flourishing new initiative dedicated to the study and resolution of global conflicts. Its work has already begun to have a global impact, with projects underway in regions such as Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Colombia.

 

We are deeply disappointed by the baseless allegations in The Pearson Family Foundation’s complaint, and we will vigorously defend the University and members of the University community.