Dear Campus Community,

This is a reminder of the upcoming Spring 2024 Susan Resneck Pierce Lecture featuring U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer, which will take place this evening at 7 p.m. in Schneebeck Concert Hall. The Pierce Lecture series is one of the many ways we celebrate a liberal arts education by presenting diverse perspectives on public affairs and the arts. During his lecture this evening, Rep. Kilmer will share his experience working across the aisle in the United States Congress, tackling divisive issues and finding common ground.

At the University of Puget Sound, we value diversity, seek equity, and work toward inclusion. We acknowledge that there are a range of viewpoints regarding Rep. Kilmer’s policy positions and about his presence at the university this evening.  Please know your voices are valued and respected within our diverse community. However, Rep. Kilmer’s lecture tonight will be focused on how communities can work through divisive issues with understanding and empathy to find commonalities, and identify solutions to complex problems. Ultimately, the decision to hear from Rep. Kilmer is based on our commitment to equip our students with the skills of critical analysis, sound judgment, and effective expression so that they are prepared to meet the challenges of democratic citizenship.

We encourage attendees at tonight’s lecture to engage in civil discourse and respect the diverse thoughts and perspectives of others. Regardless of an individual’s perspective, it is important that we protect the rights and safety of all members of our campus and remain respectful, not just to guests but to our fellow Loggers. Creating a hostile environment based on a person’s race, national or religious identity, or political affiliation have no place at Puget Sound.  

We are doing all that we can to provide a safe and secure environment for tonight’s event. Soon you will receive additional information about tonight’s lecture from Director of Security Services Dave Ferber.

Sincerely,

Isiaah Crawford, Ph.D. | President