Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Note from the Executive Director of ASEEES

The actions of the US government since January have been unprecedented, causing extraordinary uncertainty about support for Slavic, East European and Eurasian Studies and higher education more generally. 

ASEEES is actively monitoring the proposed and implemented changes to federal funding for higher education, advanced research, and foreign language training. Recent changes have potential implications for the Title VIII program, the Title VI and Fulbright-Hays programs, the Fulbright program, among others, all important sources of funding and support for our field. In accordance with our mission statement we are working with our institutional members and other partner organizations to assess the impact of the changes, share resources and information, strategize, and advocate for federal support. In this shifting landscape the Association will make every effort to keep members updated and informed as reliable, concrete information is made available. Our goal is to maximize the effectiveness and longevity of our advocacy efforts.

As the structures of higher education so essential for our field are being threatened, undermined, or actively dismantled, it is incumbent upon all of us to stay engaged. Collective action will be critical; ASEEES aims to issue specific calls to actions when they will have the greatest impact. In the meantime, we urge individuals in the US to take action by contacting their elected officials and advocating for higher education.

Those wishing to register questions and/or commentary should feel welcome to reach out to Lynda Park at [email protected] at any time. 

Read the ASEEES Advocacy Policy & Procedure.

ASEEES is a constituent society of the American Council of Learned Societies. Read the latest statement by ACLS president Joy Connolly.

March 12, 2025