President of HWS speaks to community amidst alterations in federal policies
In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, Hobart and William Smith Colleges are adapting to recent federal policy changes, while continuing to collaborate with networks at the state and national levels.
Recent legislation, such as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), has brought about significant alterations to higher education funding, student loans, and tax law. Key provisions include capping federal student loans, increasing the tax on net investment income for large endowments, and new tax credits for scholarship donations.
While the impact of these changes is being felt across the educational sector, specific measures taken by Hobart and William Smith Colleges in response to these federal shifts are not yet documented in the available sources. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), which accredits the Colleges, provides updates on accreditation policies and procedures, but these are general and do not specify actions taken by any single institution in response to federal legislation or regulatory changes.
In the general response to these shifts, colleges are reassessing financial aid strategies, monitoring endowment tax implications, ensuring compliance with civil rights laws, and engaging with accreditors and updating policies. However, the specific actions being taken by Hobart and William Smith Colleges remain unclear.
Despite this lack of specific information, the Colleges' administration, led by President Mark D. Gearan, has been closely monitoring federal policy shifts since the start of the semester. Gearan has reassured students, faculty, and staff, emphasizing resources for those impacted by these events and commending the staff's efforts, emphasizing the importance of empathy, respect, and belonging on campus.
In terms of research, Librarian Chuck Vesei and his team at the Warren Hunting Smith Library continue to actively monitor national restrictions on research data. The library also upholds policies protecting intellectual freedom and privacy.
Moreover, the Colleges' Campus Life, International Student Success, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and the LGBTQ+ Resource Center have mobilized to support students. Provost Sarah Kirk is engaging faculty regarding potential shifts in federal funding and grant opportunities.
It is crucial to note that a federal court has temporarily halted the application of certain policies within New York State. In light of this, community members are advised to contact General Counsel Lou Guard or Campus Safety Vice President Marty Corbett immediately if approached by individuals seeking access or information.
As the situation continues to develop, it is recommended that those interested in the Colleges' response to these federal policy shifts consult the Colleges’ official communications, press releases, or statements from their administration for authoritative and up-to-date information.
- Education-and-self-development: Although the specific measures taken by Hobart and William Smith Colleges in response to recent federal policy changes, such as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), are not yet documented, the administration is closely monitoring these shifts, and Provost Sarah Kirk is engaging faculty regarding potential shifts in federal funding and grant opportunities.
- Politics and General-news: In addition to the educational sector's general response to recent federal policy changes, it is important to note that a federal court has temporarily halted the application of certain policies within New York State. As the situation continues to develop, community members are advised to consult the Colleges’ official communications, press releases, or statements from their administration for authoritative and up-to-date information.
