In the wake of nationwide conversations about speech, safety and protest on college campuses, Vanderbilt University has earned state recognition for its steadfast commitment to free expression and civil discourse.
In April, Tennessee state legislators passed House Joint Resolution 175, a measure encouraging Tennessee’s public and private higher education institutions to adopt and uphold the principles of institutional neutrality, free expression and civil discourse. The bipartisan resolution commends Vanderbilt University for incorporating these values into its governing documents and campus culture, reinforcing the university’s long-standing commitment to protecting open dialogue and the respectful exchange of diverse ideas.
In the text of the resolution, lawmakers acknowledged the importance of Tennessee’s higher education institutions in shaping future leaders and producing research that serves the public good. They emphasized the need for universities to be spaces where a range of ideas can be discussed openly and respectfully—particularly during moments of national or global tension.
Free expression is fundamental to the core mission of universities. Transformative education, groundbreaking research and the pursuit of truth all rely on diverse viewpoints, the free exchange of ideas and the open challenge of conventional wisdom.
“The General Assembly’s recognition underscores a shared commitment to protecting open dialogue and civil discourse on college campuses,” said Daniel Culbreath, assistant vice chancellor for state government relations. “These values are part of Vanderbilt’s everyday work, and we’re proud to work with state leaders who see how essential they are to higher education and public life.”
Vanderbilt’s commitment to free expression is embedded in the university’s approach to education and campus life resting on three pillars: open forums, institutional neutrality and civil discourse. At a moment when free expression on college campuses and in American civic life is at risk, Vanderbilt is proud to affirm our commitment to this core principle.