Work continues as part of the Central Changes initiative

Members of the Central Michigan University community participated in listening sessions last month, as part of the Central Changes initiative. During these sessions, attendees were invited to share their concerns amid ongoing changes at the global, federal, state, and local levels. Participants shared a range of issues – including long-term job security, impacts on international students, censorship, academic freedom, and the emotional strain on students, faculty, and staff. 

“I am deeply grateful to everyone who took the time to share their thoughts and perspectives in ways that felt right for them,” Provost Lancaster said. “We learned so much through these sessions and heard powerful statements from members of our community about the rate and volume of change and feelings of helplessness, anxiety, and isolation.”  

In addition to sharing concerns, participants were invited to share their vision for the future and suggest possible next steps and solutions to address their concerns. “Many, many individuals shared their genuine interest in building community, supporting students and colleagues, and ways to be informed about ongoing changes,” Lancaster said. “Participants expressed a profound sense of perseverance, dedication, and a focus on humanity in these challenging times. “I was struck by the number of respondents who called for opportunities to communicate and understand across difference and a commitment to maintaining the supportive community that has been part of CMU’s identity for decades.”   

Work will continue over the summer to fully analyze the feedback collected as part of the initiative, with the goal of updating the university community early in fall semester, according to Lancaster.