Free expression and academic freedom are strong historical and cultural commitments of the Wake Forest University community. In September 2023, Wake Forest started an inclusive multiphase process to draft a new written statement of this commitment. This site is designed to explain the process of that work in the context of the University’s traditional commitment and distinctive history.
This is a new conversation for our campus community, and it requires a commitment to civil discourse and a background in the complex field of free expression. As the 2024–2025 year continues, we will share resources and discussion guides to facilitate this continued conversation, including ample opportunities for feedback and involvement in the drafting of our new statement on free expression and academic freedom.
Wake Forest University strives to be an inclusive community of inquiry – one that engages in dialogue across differences in service to humanity. Protecting and fostering freedom of expression is integral to our academic mission, and requires a campuswide commitment to civil discourse, engagement, and empathy.
Dr. Susan R. Wente, President
Wake Forest Faculty, staff, and students are poised to offer knowledge, context, expertise, and deep care in the midst of challenging and often polarized discussions. We embrace free expression regardless of our own views, beliefs, faiths, and identities and engage with humility and generosity.
Dr. Michele Gillespie, Provost
