Dear School of the Arts Community—
As our students and faculty head off for spring break next week, I wanted to reach out to members of our community, both here and afar. This has been an extremely difficult time at Columbia. The detainment of a former student and permanent US resident, along with more visits by the Department of Homeland Security, has left many in our community shaken.
Combined with significant funding cuts leveled mostly at our scientific research mission, we recognize more than ever that we are one community. Across schools and disciplines, we are intertwined in our shared goals of educating students from around the world, supporting the most distinguished faculty from every field, developing new knowledge, and contributing to our societies. This unprecedented attack hits all of us; and we are united in knowing that we will get through this challenging time together.
In the School of the Arts, we have a special attachment to free speech; artists have always questioned the status quo and have often borne the brunt of disapproval. It takes courage and conviction to seek a life in the arts, and we celebrate the choice of our students to pursue this path. We will always stand behind our artist students and faculty as they practice their art and follow their vision.
I wish, finally, to express my most heartfelt solidarity with our students, faculty, and staff—as well as future members of our community—from around the world. The School of the Arts is proud of our international character and will always welcome and support those who chose to study, work, and teach with us, no matter how far they have traveled to be here and no matter what their background. We are a global School in a global city, and we relish this essential aspect of our institution.
For those of you going off on break, I wish you a safe and restorative week, and I look forward to seeing many of you in Morningside Heights soon. Our Student Affairs staff, led by Dean Laila Maher, is sending regular updates to current students with information about how we can support them. Please stay in close touch with them and with me.
All my best,
Sarah
Sarah Cole
Dean of the School of the Arts
Parr Professor of English and Comparative Literature
Columbia University
