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As our nation marks Independence Day this month, we are reminded of the enduring ideals—freedom and opportunity—that define America. These principles are deeply embedded in our founding documents and are central to the work of public higher education. A belief in philanthropy and the value of civil society organizations have also been central to U.S. society. Foundations have played an important role in advancing these principles by supporting equitable opportunity and access, funding research, and serving as a vehicle for private philanthropy in support of the public good. The work of your foundation helps its public partner to fulfill its mission and to uphold the democratic values that empower students and communities alike.
At AGB, we believe that freedom, especially freedom of thought, inquiry, and speech, is essential to the academic mission. These freedoms allow our colleges and universities to serve as engines of innovation, ladders of opportunity, and champions of civic discourse. This month, as we reflect on liberty’s promises, we also reaffirm our commitment to protecting the freedoms that empower higher education—and the foundations that support it—to serve the public good.
Freedom of Speech Is a Pillar of Higher Education
Free speech is more than a constitutional right—it is a cornerstone of intellectual discovery. It fuels the robust exchange of ideas, fosters critical thinking, and ensures that a diversity of perspectives is heard. Yet today, these freedoms are under increasing strain. Polarization, legislative intervention, and misinformation threaten to undermine the open dialogue upon which academic excellence depends.
Foundations, in partnership with governing boards, play a critical role in upholding these values. Just as America’s founders defended liberty against great odds, so, too, must those who support higher education defend the freedoms that define our institutions and our democracy.
Strengthening Academic Freedom and Institutional Resilience
Upholding academic freedom calls for leadership marked by integrity, foresight, and an unwavering commitment to mission. Foundations can play a vital role in this work by encouraging and sustaining board efforts to:
- Affirm the Values of Higher Education: Promote freedom of expression, academic rigor, and the open exchange of ideas.
- Support Leadership amid Uncertainty: Help ensure presidents and leadership teams are equipped to address politically charged issues with strategic clarity.
- Safeguard Autonomy: Advocate for institutional independence and the right of campuses to uphold their unique missions.
- Engage in Principled Advocacy: Support boards that speak clearly in favor of access, equity, and excellence.
Advancing Academic Freedom and Freedom of Speech: AGB and the Mellon Foundation
AGB is honored to be the recipient of a grant from the Mellon Foundation to lead a national initiative on fiduciary governance in support of free speech and academic freedom.
Through this initiative, AGB is convening board members, higher education leaders, scholars, and civic partners to explore how institutions can strengthen civil discourse, protect freedom of expression, and prepare students for democratic citizenship.
The grant supports in-depth programming, research, and actionable guidance to help boards—and the foundations that support them—navigate today’s dynamic environment while remaining true to higher education’s core values.
With Mellon’s partnership, we are reinforcing the role of higher education as a crucible for open inquiry and civic leadership.
Strategies for Foundation and Board Leadership in Defense of Freedom
To help boards and their philanthropic partners lead with courage and clarity in defense of the freedoms our nation celebrates on July 4, we recommend these strategies:
- Cultivate Civil Discourse: Encourage respectful dialogue across the institution and within board and foundation meetings.
- Reaffirm Institutional Mission: Ground philanthropic support in mission fidelity and long-term student and societal impact.
- Enhance Trustee and Foundation Education: Equip leaders with resources and tools to understand fiduciary duty and navigate challenges to academic freedom with confidence.
- Foster Inclusive Excellence: Support environments where all students and voices are empowered to learn, grow, and lead.
Go Deeper
Explore these AGB resources designed to advance your board’s—and your foundation’s—leadership on freedom of speech, academic freedom, and institutional autonomy:
- Govern NOW: Secure Higher Education’s Promise
- Blog Post: “Balancing Free Speech and the Inclusive Campus”
- Microsite: Academic Freedom and Freedom of Speech
- Book: Freedom of Speech and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion on Campus
- Toolkit: Safeguarding Institutional Autonomy: A Tool for Boards Facing Political Interference
- Blog Post: “Developing Board Support for Civic Education and Democracy”
Stewarding Liberty on Campus and Beyond
This month, let us not only commemorate our freedoms but commit to actively protecting them. Foundations play a pivotal role in helping institutions shape the future of our democracy. There is no greater patriotic act than ensuring that liberty thrives on every campus in America.
At AGB, we are proud to stand with you in this essential work. In the months ahead, we will continue to offer insights, programs, and tools to help boards and foundations lead with conviction, resilience, and a steadfast dedication to democratic ideals.
