February 8, 2025

Dear Colorado State University Community,

During the last few weeks, multiple executive actions that have come from the new federal administration have brought uncertainty and rapid change to many organizations that have relationships with the federal government. These changes have impacted individuals across our community as well as higher education institutions across the country. Here at CSU, our leadership team, the Office of the General Counsel and governmental relations colleagues at the CSU System are closely monitoring and analyzing this fluid and quickly evolving landscape. We have been working directly with many individuals and impacted groups across campus to answer questions and address challenges, and we are actively advocating through our relationships with elected officials and national organizations.

At this time, many questions remain about how the federal administration’s executive orders – along with court challenges, the downsizing of federal agencies and other recent actions – will potentially impact students, faculty and staff. To keep the University community informed, CSU has launched a new website containing reliable information about federal actions, campus communications, links to resources and direct guidance as it is available. The website also provides information about our University community’s frequently asked questions, including questions about executive orders related to DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion); undocumented individuals; and federally funded grants, agreements and contracts. The Updates on Federal Actions web page will be amended regularly to reflect current guidance.

At CSU our goal is to support impacted members of our Ram community and to ensure the integrity of our research and academic enterprises while maintaining compliance with the law, which in some cases means awaiting judicial review of legal challenges. CSU receives more than $436 million in federal funding each year, supporting research, student programs, community partnerships and more. These programs provide vital resources to students, faculty, staff and communities across our campus, the region and the state, including more than 1,000 staff and faculty jobs. In addition, our students receive more than $200 million annually in federal financial aid.

As Colorado’s land-grant institution, our University was founded to provide access to an excellent education for all who have the desire and ability to pursue a degree. While there is much uncertainty at this time, we do know that our teaching, research and service mission is steadfast, and we know that we must work together to support each member of our Ram family to fulfill this mission. Thank you for all you do as we navigate these challenges.

We will continue to assess and study executive actions and the impacts of downsizing federal agencies. Our CSU leadership team is committed to carefully considering and working to make thoughtful decisions that remain true to our values and mission. Please check the Updates on Federal Actions web page regularly. Questions related to impacts on federally funded grants, agreements and contracts may be directed to the Office of the Vice President for Research at [email protected]. Additional questions about federal changes and impacts may be directed to [email protected]. We will reach out to members of our University community with pertinent and direct information.

Sincerely,

Amy Parsons, President

Marion K. Underwood, Provost and Executive Vice President