Information and Resources to Support Community Standards
Dear Members of the CMU Community:
As we begin a new academic year, we look forward to opportunities to engage and connect with each other throughout the semester. As Tartans, we share both the privileges and responsibilities that come with being a part of this special community. The Word student handbook contains information and resources to support our students in upholding the university’s standards, and articulates the rights and responsibilities afforded to and expected of all of our students. Please take the time to review this valuable resource, as well as the university’s vision, mission and values that guide all of our interactions.
We also wish to take a moment to reinforce the centrality of freedom of expression to CMU’s mission and to a vibrant campus life. As we strive to thoughtfully engage with each other around contentious topics, it is incumbent upon all of us to create the conditions for both respectful discourse and campus safety, and to continuously nurture a culture of belonging and inclusion.
We wish to call your attention to our posted Policy on Tents and Encampments and updated Procedures for Registering Expressive Activity. The procedures regarding expressive activities — including protests and rallies — are designed to support event planners through a collaborative and consultative advising process. Expressive activities involving 25 or more participants are required to be registered in order to ensure coordination with the university and support the conditions for civil and safe exchange. We are grateful for the good counsel provided by the executive teams of our governance groups, including dialogue with Student Government, Faculty Senate and Staff Council, as we refined these policies and procedures.
For ease of reference, we have compiled various policies, resources and engagement opportunities related to expressive activity and civil discourse on this central webpage, which will be updated throughout the semester.
It is a delight to welcome you to the 2024-2025 academic year and we look forward to an engaging, safe and productive semester.
Sincerely,
James H. Garrett Jr.
Provost and Chief Academic Officer
Gina Casalegno
Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students