The National Review wonders if "Cornell Alumni can steer their University Away from Campus Madness?"

Cornell University’s recent history has been marked by growing concerns about the erosion of free speech, ideological conformity, and the pervasive influence of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) policies. These challenges reached a peak in 2024, with many alumni expressing frustration over the university’s direction and its leadership under President Martha Pollack. As the university approaches its alumni trustee elections in February 2025, concerned graduates see this as an opportunity to correct course and restore the values of intellectual freedom that once defined the institution.

In a recent National Review article, Jack Fowler explores the context of these elections and the broader movement within the Cornell alumni community. The article highlights the efforts of independent candidates like Cindy Crawford and J. Kennerly Davis, who have garnered significant support by challenging the prevailing ideologies and advocating for the restoration of free speech and academic diversity at the university.

Fowler writes, "Crawford explains her candidacy thus: 'The challenges Cornell has faced regarding freedom of expression and institutional neutrality are squarely within my professional expertise, which focuses on upholding free speech, and First Amendment rights.'" These words resonate with alumni who have long been concerned that the administration, with its focus on DEI, has stifled open dialogue and ignored criticisms about growing intolerance for differing viewpoints.

The election process itself has sparked concerns. Fowler outlines the unbalanced nature of Cornell’s trustee elections, where candidates endorsed by the university’s Committee on Alumni Trustee Nominations (CATN) are given a distinct advantage, while "unendorsed" candidates like Crawford and Davis, despite their strong credentials, face significant hurdles in their campaigns. The rules are so restrictive that any form of campaigning or public debate on the issues is prohibited, forcing alumni to engage in what some describe as a "rigged" system.

As the article notes, "The development of an effective solution to any problem must be based on a commitment to pursue the truth, to approach the complexity of our world with inquisitive humility, and to pursue solutions to its problems through the iterative application of empirical analysis." This sentiment, expressed by Davis, underscores the need for trustees who are willing to challenge the administration’s ideological grip and work toward a more balanced and open-minded academic environment.

For those of us advocating for the protection of free speech at Cornell, the upcoming trustee elections represent a crucial moment to ensure that the university doesn’t continue down a path of ideological homogeneity. We support the candidacies of Crawford and Davis, who stand as beacons of change in an environment increasingly dominated by groupthink.

Source: Jack Fowler, Can Cornell Alumni Steer Their University Away from Campus Madness?, National Review, January 19, 2025. National Review