Campuswide Messaging and Communications Protocol
Periodically, events occur that may call for a statement from the college as issued by the president or their designee. The following considerations have been developed to guide decision-making about whether and when to issue such statements. Decision-making will be applied consistently, informed by the following principles and considerations.
In determining whether or not to issue a statement, the college will consider the scope of the event, the extent to which its stakeholders are affected, and whether a statement is the best response to the needs of the community. Statements issued will:
- Support our academic mission and our values.
- Strengthen our community, with priority given to the needs of the on-campus community, especially to students and their education.
- Uphold our commitment to freedom of expression and maintain an environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed, within the context of a safe learning environment.
Statements will not be the default response to a particular situation; rather, the college will seek first to respond as an institution of higher education by making space for education, learning, and exchange.
Endorsed by Smith’s Board of Trustees, February 24, 2024