Image

UMass Amherst Community, Democracy, and Dialogue (CDD) will host a talk and Q&A session with Kristen Shahverdian, program director of Campus Free Speech at PEN America, a New York-based nonprofit organization that advocates for free expression and human rights, followed by a panel discussion with UMass experts and leadership on Wednesday, March 12, from 9:30 a.m. to noon in the Student Union Ballroom. 

With over two dozen executive orders issued since the start of the new administration, colleges and universities across the country are facing a period of significant transition. These policies have far-reaching implications for international students and scholars, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, Title IX and gender-related policies, Title VI, sustainability initiatives, research funding, and more. As higher education navigates these shifts, many are left with pressing questions and concerns about the future.

Image

This timely symposium will examine the impact of these policy changes on higher education. Speakers and panelists will share insights on these evolving challenges and discuss how UMass Amherst is preparing for the future. The event offers a unique opportunity to stay informed and gain a deeper understanding of the shifting landscape of higher education.

The symposium will feature a keynote address by Shahverdian and a Q&A session will be led by David Mednicoff, department chair and associate professor of Middle Eastern studies and public policy. The talk will be followed by a panel discussion with UMass Amherst leadership, moderated by Vice Chancellor for Equity and Inclusion Marsha McGriff.

A buffet breakfast will be provided and reservations are required. This event will not be livestreamed.

The complete event schedule and list of panel participants can be found below. More information about the event can be found on the Community, Democracy and Dialogue website.
 

Program Schedule

• 9:30 a.m. – Check-in and Breakfast
• 10 a.m. – Welcome and keynote address by Kristen Shahverdian, PEN America, followed by “Fireside Chat,” Q&A moderated by David Mednicoff, department chair and associate professor of Middle Eastern Studies and public policy
• 11 a.m. – UMass Leadership Panel Discussion, moderated by Marsha McGriff, vice chancellor for equity and inclusion 

Panelists:

• Genny Beemyn, director, Stonewall Center, “Impacts on LGBTQIA+ Community”
• Cheryl Ponder, assistant vice chancellor for advocacy, inclusion and support programs, Student Affairs and Campus Life, “Impacts on Undergraduate Students”
• Sofiya Alhassan, associate dean, Office of Inclusion and Engagement, Graduate School, “Impacts on Graduate Students”
• Anthony Paik, professor of sociology and secretary of the Faculty Senate, “Impacts on Faculty”
• Fouad Abd-El-Khalick, provost and senior vice chancellor for academic affairs, “Impacts on Academics and Curriculum”