Collaboration and the Chancellor’s Cabinet
Dear DU community members,
I have recently made key changes to how the Chancellor’s Cabinet operates to better reflect our commitment to deeper engagement, shared governance, and inclusive leadership.
This summer, the cabinet adopted a new committee structure, drawing inspiration from the organization of the Faculty Senate and the Board of Trustees. This change encourages improved cabinet member involvement and collaboration. Importantly, it also allows the broader community to meaningfully participate in important conversations.
The cabinet now has four committees; three are focused on top priorities, and these may change over time. Each committee’s scope, as well as collaboration with other existing University committees outside of the cabinet, will iterate through the academic year. Currently, these committees are:
I have recently made key changes to how the Chancellor’s Cabinet operates to better reflect our commitment to deeper engagement, shared governance, and inclusive leadership.
This summer, the cabinet adopted a new committee structure, drawing inspiration from the organization of the Faculty Senate and the Board of Trustees. This change encourages improved cabinet member involvement and collaboration. Importantly, it also allows the broader community to meaningfully participate in important conversations.
The cabinet now has four committees; three are focused on top priorities, and these may change over time. Each committee’s scope, as well as collaboration with other existing University committees outside of the cabinet, will iterate through the academic year. Currently, these committees are:
- Strategic Enrollment Committee, chaired by Provost Elizabeth Loboa
- This group unites deans, Faculty Senate members, and administrators to expand enrollment and keep student success at the core of our focus and mission.
- Reputation Committee, chaired by Senior Vice Chancellor Brad Bohlander
- This group focuses on elevating DU’s local and national reputation through strategic and collaborative marketing, communications, and public affairs.
- Culture and Engagement Committee, chaired by Vice Chancellor Jeff Banks
- This group examines DU’s internal culture and climate to enhance the community experience. I also personally serve on this committee.
- The final and fourth committee is the Executive Committee:
- Executive Committee, chaired by me, Chancellor Haefner
- This group meets weekly to set cabinet agendas and discussion topics, as well as to address campus-wide issues with senior leaders from across the University.
We will soon have more information about these committees, and their work, on the DU website.
An Update Regarding AAC&U Statements
Last week, I shared DU’s decision to sign the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) statement rejecting the proposed “Compact” from Washington—a stance that resonated with many of you. I appreciate all the thoughtful notes in response.
Today, I am pleased to share that DU has also signed a second AAC&U statement, affirming shared principles of higher education: opportunity, affordability, excellence, freedom, security, partnership, and prosperity. To be sure, there are many principles that are foundational to our work and values, but these seven are central to higher education’s purpose.
Together, these two statements—one rejecting, one affirming—show that by standing united, we can take a principled position and offer our nation constructive engagement.
Next week, on Oct. 30, I hope you join the DU community in attending the State of the University address. You can find more information on Crimson Connect.
Until then, take care.
Jeremy Haefner
Today, I am pleased to share that DU has also signed a second AAC&U statement, affirming shared principles of higher education: opportunity, affordability, excellence, freedom, security, partnership, and prosperity. To be sure, there are many principles that are foundational to our work and values, but these seven are central to higher education’s purpose.
Together, these two statements—one rejecting, one affirming—show that by standing united, we can take a principled position and offer our nation constructive engagement.
Next week, on Oct. 30, I hope you join the DU community in attending the State of the University address. You can find more information on Crimson Connect.
Until then, take care.
Jeremy Haefner