On Jan. 28, President Robert Kelly sent an email to students, faculty and staff addressing the Trump administration’s recent executive orders, including a federal funding freeze on federal grants and loans, which has since been rescinded.
According to Kelly's email, the University will continue to monitor the situation as it evolves and is investigating the impacts of other executive orders and announcements that affect higher education. However, the exact executive orders the University plans to investigate were not specified in the email.
“Like many across the country, senior leadership at the University of Portland is closely monitoring the actions of the new presidential administration,” Kelly said in the email. “We are working diligently to understand the impacts of recent Executive Orders and other announcements, and are collaborating closely with fellow institutions of higher education and Oregon’s Congressional Delegation in Washington, D.C..”
According to the Associated Press (AP), the Trump administration initially put a hold on federal loans and grants so that spending would comply with previous executive orders, including those intending to end diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on X while the memo was rescinded, the administration would still pursue a path to implement it.
While the Trump Administration’s slew of executive orders in the past two weeks has confused many, it is still unclear how the Trump administration’s executive order on dismantling DEI programs will affect UP. In an email to The Beacon earlier this week, Director of Public Affairs Dan Christopherson echoed what Kelly said.
“The University is closely monitoring the new administration’s executive orders,” Christopherson said. “We want our students to know the University’s Catholic, Holy Cross commitment to fostering a campus culture in which everyone’s dignity is sacred and all are welcomed remains unchanged. University leadership, staff, and faculty are committed to continuing the programs and services that support our mission.
“Next week, UP is excited to welcome our new Vice President for Student Affairs & Inclusive Excellence, Dr. Alvin Sturdivant, who will continue to champion an inclusive, supportive, and thriving community for all campus members.”
Camille Kuroiwa-Lewis is the Living Editor for The Beacon. She can be reached at kuroiwal26@up.edu.
Kimberly Cortez is the Editor-in-Chief of The Beacon. They can be reached at cortez25@up.edu.
