Wendy J. Schiller

This document presents Brown University's proposed operating budget for fiscal year 2020, designed to align financial resources with the University's overarching strategic plan, 'Building on Distinction'. The budget prioritizes academic distinctiveness in teaching and research, fosters a cohesive community, develops financial resources, and aims for operational efficiency. Key investment areas derived from the strategic plan include integrative scholarship, educational leadership, academic excellence, and campus development, with ongoing emphasis on initiatives related to diversity and inclusion.

This document defines the core institutional values and outlines guidelines for the public voice of Brown University. It establishes four core values: the pursuit of knowledge and understanding, academic freedom and freedom of expression, a commitment to openness and diversity of ideas, perspectives, and experiences, and responsibility for a thriving academic community. The Statement of University Voice mandates that public statements or actions intentionally expressing a position must directly advance and defend the University's mission, refraining from unrelated topics to uphold public trust and academic freedom.

This document summarizes the strategic direction for The Institute at Brown. The strategic plan, launched approximately a year prior, outlines four primary goal areas: fostering student success, advancing impactful research beyond the campus, enhancing community engagement, and strengthening the Institute's foundational operations, diversity, and governance. Key upcoming priorities include expanding student internships and professional development, recruiting new faculty, developing a program in sustainable investing and financing, implementing a comprehensive communications plan, deepening student engagement, and launching large-scale research initiatives such as Equitable Climate Futures. The Institute also celebrates its 10-year anniversary.

This strategic plan outlines Brown University's comprehensive approach to sustainability. It details overarching priorities including achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, reducing nutrient pollution by 25% by 2030, safeguarding human health by eliminating hazardous chemicals and addressing pollution, reducing water use and its impacts, and curbing biodiversity loss. The plan emphasizes operationalizing these priorities through dedicated working groups, setting measurable goals, and integrating environmental justice considerations across all initiatives.

The Fall Undergraduate Town Hall focused on several critical topics for the campus community. Key discussions included the current state of operations during the COVID-19 pandemic, public health protocols for the upcoming holiday season, and university efforts to support civic engagement during the presidential election. Additionally, the conversation addressed university initiatives to combat systemic racism, including institutional support for research on anti-black racism and updates on the ongoing partnership with local schools. The meeting also covered the external review of the Department of Public Safety and the importance of continued academic research and public engagement on global issues.