Northwood University was built upon a founding philosophy we refer to as The Northwood Idea. Our institution believes in rigorous academic engagement, and we are collectively dedicated to promoting freedom, responsibility, free-enterprise and the rule of law. Sadly, our academic community was shocked and outraged at the lawlessness that consumed the Nation’s Capitol yesterday. This was especially difficult to witness on the very day the U.S. Congress gathered to validate the votes of the Electoral College to confirm the next President of the United States.
Yesterday, we witnessed an unprecedented attack on the freedoms, values and structure of our country. As faculty, staff and citizens dedicated to America and The Northwood Idea, we promote, defend and work daily to strengthen economic and political freedom. Thus, we join in support of all who stand against this assault on the very pillars of our democracy, guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution.
A democratic republic is fragile when in times of crisis, good people remain quiet and do nothing. As President, you can count me among those who condemn the violence and the disruption of the democratic process. I also want to personally recognize our elected representatives, who worked early into this morning, to fulfill their responsibility to complete the peaceful transfer of presidential power.
I look forward to welcoming our students back to campus, when we can once again, demonstrate Northwood is a university that welcomes the free exchange of ideas, and the vigorous yet respectful debate that is critical to the creation of the society we all desire.