February 25, 2025

Dear NDSU Community,

As we navigate federal policy shifts affecting institutions nationwide, we are closely monitoring developments to stay informed and prepared. At NDSU, we are committed to adapting thoughtfully, minimizing disruption to our university community, and ensuring that faculty, staff, and students continue to have access to the resources and support they need.

As I have shared in previous campus communications, I have convened a Federal Coordination Group which includes representatives from Research and Creative Activity, Extension, Finance and Administration, Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Strategic Enrollment Management, Governance Leadership, and the Attorney General’s Office. Their collective expertise is guiding our approach as we navigate this shifting landscape. A smaller group is working to determine how federal initiatives and related litigations are impacting our research portfolio. To date, and as we have previously communicated, a temporary restraining order remains in effect for the OMB memo and the NIH indirect cost adjustment.

We have also formed the Dear Colleague Letter Group to review the compliance requirements outlined in the Department of Education’s letter issued on February 14. Their work is vital to maintaining the university’s ability to fulfill its land-grant mission while ensuring compliance. This week, several meetings have focused on balancing federal requirements with the goal of providing a thriving and welcoming experience for our entire community.

We are committed to keeping our campus community informed. To support this, we are developing a Federal Actions webpage that will serve as a central hub for the latest information, including background resources and institutional responses as well as a space to share your suggestions, concerns or questions. This resource will help faculty, staff, and students stay up to date on key developments and our efforts to address them.

Change on this scale affects all of us in different ways, and your engagement is critical as we move forward. If you have questions, concerns, or suggestions, email links are available on the Federal Actions webpage. Your insights are valuable as we work together to navigate this period of transition with care and clarity.

Thank you for your dedication to NDSU and our land-grant mission. We will continue to provide updates to keep our community informed and engaged.
 

Sincerely,

David Cook