Update to the VP&S Community

Dear Colleagues,

I write to you as we face one of the most challenging periods in our history, to reassure you that we remain committed to our mission, a commitment that has not wavered throughout the 250 years of the medical school’s existence: to conduct groundbreaking research and deliver world-class education, all in the service of providing the highest level of patient care.

Since Monday, NIH grants have been canceled across a wide array of research areas throughout our school. These cancellations affect critical, lifesaving research and discovery that aim to improve health and well-being across the U.S. and the world. On a personal note, I am devastated for members of our community, who have dedicated their careers to improving health and alleviating human suffering. The repercussions extend to our many valued research partners in New York City and around the country.

The impact of our research on medicine is undeniable. From pioneering cancer treatments to groundbreaking heart disease interventions and cutting-edge gene and cell therapies, research conducted by Columbia faculty has helped innumerable people live healthier, longer, and more productive lives.

We are dedicated to ensuring the continuation of this incredible work. We are coordinating closely with the University as it works with the federal government to address their legitimate concerns. Please know that the University is also actively reviewing and pursuing a range of strategies to protect our research and our institution.

This is a deeply troubling and difficult moment for our campus. I encourage you to read Interim President Katrina Armstrong’s recent messages to the Columbia community, which reflect the values and standards of our University and our school. To reiterate a few points: We stand with the University’s affirmation of our commitment to free speech and to open and respectful dialogue as fundamental University values. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and safe community, and we support our international faculty, staff, and students, who enjoy the same rights of academic freedom as all Columbians. I want to reassure you that Columbia University believes in the rule of law and will always follow the law. That includes requiring a judicial warrant to enter non-public University areas, including University residential buildings (FAQs on potential visits to campus from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement are available here). In addition, to deter unacceptable forms of online aggression, the University has implemented a new Anti-Doxing and Online Harassment Policy, which applies to all members of the University community.

Though the future is uncertain, I know that our community’s strong bonds and resilience will enable us to navigate this tumult. We are dedicated to supporting you and helping you during this disruptive period. Together, let us meet this moment by working together with unity and courage and continuing to do what we have always done: harnessing the power of knowledge to drive progress and improve lives.

Sincerely,

James McKiernan, MD
Interim Dean, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons
CEO, ColumbiaDoctors