March 7, 2023 – Our Commitment to Freedom of Expression

Friends in the Davidson Community,
 
Last week the Davidson faculty affirmed a commitment to free expression for the college. Drafted by a working group from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, the statement builds upon our devotion to an environment of open inquiry, debate and mutual learning.
 
This achievement toward common ground reflects the hope and optimism that always have thrived at Davidson. The faculty made adjustments to the document in a step toward inclusion, and the working group embraced those changes. I want to thank the members of the working group: Professor Ike Bailey ’95, Professor Susan Roberts, former Governor Jim Martin ’57, Trustee Beadsie Woo ’86, student Varun Maheshwari ’23 and student-now-alum Jared Herr ’22. I also want to thank President Emerita Carol Quillen for convening this group and offering their charge. 
 
And I want to thank the faculty for affirming this commitment to create an environment where everyone participates in the exchange of ideas and can learn freely, regardless of their identity. This is a cornerstone of striving together toward an inclusive and equitable community. 
 
Please read the story that has been posted on the Davidson website and links to the full document. 

Doug Hicks '90
President