Dear Members of the TC Community,

Earlier today (March 7), the Federal Government announced the immediate cancellation of $400 million in federal grants and contracts to Columbia University because of what it described as the school’s failure to address antisemitism and protect Jewish students from harassment.  

Even though Teachers College is an independent institution, guided by a separate Board of Trustees and President, one that enforces its own set of anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policies, we have received notice that a number of our faculty grants are also being cut as part of this effort. We are investigating the scope and legality of these cuts and the impact they will have on our faculty, students, staff, and the communities they serve. 

These wholesale cuts to vital research endeavors will have lasting and devastating impacts on the public good, to which our university system is devoted: from public health, to K-12 teachers and students, mental health and counseling, community colleges, and much more. We will fight to restore these critical funds, and will appeal the decision. 

Our mission and priority focus remain on the well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and on our contributions to building a smarter, healthier, more just and equitable world.

I am grateful that the TC community is united in this focus and will keep you informed as we move forward.

Sincerely,

Thomas Bailey
President
Teachers College, Columbia University