Resolution of Confidence in Chancellor Haefner

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

MAY 27, 2025

RESOLUTION OF UNWAVERING CONFIDENCE IN THE LEADERSHIP OF CHANCELLOR JEREMY HAEFNER

WHEREAS, following the unexpected departure of then-Chancellor Rebecca Chopp, the Board of Trustees acted decisively to appoint Jeremy Haefner—a proven and visionary leader—to ensure continuity, momentum, and propel the University of Denver’s strategic vision, IMPACT 2025, forward; and

WHEREAS, through Chancellor Haefner’s leadership and the efforts of his team, the University of Denver has achieved significant milestones—all building on the efforts of faculty and staff over many years—including:

• Safeguarding in-person enrollment and operations through the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring both safety and academic continuity;

• Earning and maintaining the prestigious status as a Doctoral/Very High Research (“R1”) university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education—and doing it “our way”;

• Securing full philanthropic funding for and launching the James C. Kennedy Mountain Campus, expanding the University’s experiential learning opportunities;

• Elevating the University of Denver’s national reputation as a leader in free expression, pluralism, and academic excellence;

• Raising more than $600 million and undertaking a very successful public launch of the $1 billion Denver Difference fundraising campaign; and

• Attaining the highest graduation and retention rates since 2010, reflecting a commitment to student success and institutional effectiveness; and

WHEREAS, Chancellor Haefner’s leadership in the development and implementation of the Four-Dimensional (“4D”) Experience has not only built upon the University’s strengths in student support, the teacher-scholar model, and pedagogical innovation, but has also directly contributed to record-setting retention and graduation rates, demonstrating measurable impact on student outcomes; and

WHEREAS, in an era of unprecedented challenges for higher education—including shifting enrollment patterns, doubts about the value of a college degree, and evolving regulatory demands—Chancellor Haefner has exemplified prudent stewardship of university resources, while simultaneously investing in strategic initiatives that distinguish the University of Denver and enhance its competitiveness in recruiting and retaining excellent students, faculty and staff; and

WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees recognizes Chancellor Haefner’s commitment to inclusive leadership, transparency, and collaboration, including through the DU Forward initiative, which leverages the collective expertise and creativity of faculty, staff, students, and other stakeholders to strengthen the institution’s future and enhance its reputation; and

WHEREAS, at this challenging time for higher education, it is critical to ensure strong leadership for the University of Denver—an intelligent, strategic and passionate leader capable of making difficult decisions that best benefit the University and empower the institution to achieve its mission; this is precisely what we have experienced with Chancellor Haefner; and

WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees unequivocally endorses Chancellor Haefner’s strategic vision and priorities, expressing full confidence in his leadership to adeptly steer the University of Denver through forthcoming challenges and to capitalize on emerging opportunities.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Trustees of the University of Denver that it affirms its full, unwavering, and public confidence in Jeremy Haefner as Chancellor, recognizing his integrity, strategic acumen, and dedication to the University’s mission and values.