As you are likely aware, major federal legislation (H.R. 1) was signed into law over the holiday weekend. It will be months or maybe even years before we fully understand how the new law will impact higher education broadly. But I want to share with you what we know at this time about the implications for WashU.

I’m writing to provide you with an update on the developing situation at the federal level as policymakers consider actions that could significantly impact higher education. It’s important for you, as members of our WashU community, to stay informed and to understand how you can get involved.

As the next step in this process, Chancellor Andrew D. Martin will appoint a committee to make recommendations to university leadership for how WashU can most effectively and efficiently achieve its community-focused goals and support its students, faculty and staff, while continuing to comply with federal guidance and laws.

The past few months have been a challenging time for American higher education. Our colleges and universities are in the national spotlight and under scrutiny on a number of fronts, including how we conduct research, how we support our communities, and even how we educate our students.

Washington University in St. Louis will pause construction on major capital projects on its Danforth Campus, in response to uncertainties regarding federal funding. Projects that will be put on hold will include planned improvements to Mudd Field, which began at the start of the year, and the new Arts & Sciences building, which was announced last fall.

I’m writing today first to offer the university’s support to our international students, faculty and staff. We are here to support you and make sure you have resources to manage the current uncertainty, as well as any challenges that may come your way.

We all have a role to play in shaping our financial future. We’re asking everyone to be prudent in their spending and give careful consideration to how university funds are used. Until we know more specifically what we’re facing, we are not making dramatic changes.

We recognize that the guidance coming out of the federal government has been confusing and rapidly changing. The recent guidance (NOT-OD-25-068) from the NIH cutting F&A to 15% has prompted multiple lawsuits. At this time, please adhere to the following guidance.

You likely have seen the news that the National Institutes of Health have made cuts to research funding for facilities and administration. These cuts also will be implemented by other federal agencies and stand to have a significant impact on institutions like WashU.

Two U.S. District Court judges have issued temporary restraining orders that prevent federal agencies from taking any action against awards or obligations based on the Office of Management and Budget Memo and the President’s Executive Orders. As always, agencies may pause awards or obligations provided the action complies with the terms and conditions in the Notice of Award or funding agreement.