We have not just an opportunity, but a responsibility to share the knowledge we develop with a wider world that is hungry for it. A full accounting of the knowledge and accumulated expertise at the UW would be impossible, but if we harness it together and as individuals, our collective power to inform truthfully and persuasively is formidable.
Presidential Blog
Standing together
No matter who you are, where you’re from, whom you love, where or whether you worship, or any other aspect of your identity, we welcome your contributions to helping the University of Washington maintain its commitment to access and excellence, to building a better and more equitable future, and creating a world of good.
Update on University response to Friday’s events (Updated)
On Friday night, our campus community was shocked and heartbroken when what was intended to be a peaceful protest was disrupted by violence that resulted in several assaults and a man being shot. Like all of you, I’m thankful that the victim is reported to be recovering. In the days since that incident, the University has received many inquiries from community members concerned about campus safety.
Another vote of confidence in your work to change lives
The measure of the University of Washington’s true worth comes in the impact we have on the world. Your impact is broad, emerging through disciplines ranging from poetry to physics, and is truly global, with projects and partnerships in more than 130 countries – and right here in Washington.
Violence has no place at our University and no role in our democracy
I want to say very clearly: Violence has no place at our University and in our communities. It is heartbreaking that a man was shot and others assaulted during what should have been peaceful demonstrations. The gunshot victim is currently hospitalized, and we fervently hope for his full recovery.
Statement from UW President Ana Mari Cauce on shooting incident during protest in Red Square
The following is a statement from University of Washington President Ana Mari Cauce following an incident in which a man suffered a gunshot wound in the abdomen during a large protest in Red Square.
Pursuing the ideals of a more perfect union
This week begins and ends with two important days in the civic life of our nation: Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Inauguration Day. In many ways, these two days represent two sides of the same coin. On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we celebrate the life of a man who used advocacy, peaceful protest and civil disobedience to advance the cause of human rights. And on Inauguration Day, we mark the peaceful transition of power as determined by the votes cast in our electoral system.
Reconnecting with Cuba, and Cubans, was a joy
This past weekend marked a milestone in Cuban-American relations as Alaska Airlines began the first regular commercial service from the West Coast to Cuba. I was deeply honored to be invited on the inaugural flight to Havana, where I was born. I’m still processing the trip, but wanted to share a few of my impressions with the UW community along with some photos from that beautiful city.
Reflecting on the best of UW
The end of each year is a time to look back at victories and milestones, to remember friends and family and reflect on what we’ve learned. It’s also a time to look ahead — with optimism and determination — toward the possibilities that the new year holds.
The test of free expression is protecting speech that offends (Updated)
I want to state clearly, especially to the thousands of people who have contacted my office with concerns about an upcoming visit by a speaker known for racist and misogynist provocation, that we understand and empathize with their objections and frustration. Nonetheless, the right to free speech and expression is broad and allows for speech that is offensive and that most of us would consider disrespectful, and even sexist or racist. As a public university committed to the free exchange of ideas and free expression, we are obligated to uphold this right.