Navigating Uncertainty Together: Community Updates and Upcoming Office Hour Forums
Dear members of the HSDM community,
In recent weeks, our University and School have faced unprecedented challenges to our academic independence and threats to our federally funded research. You’ve no doubt been following the actions taken by President Garber to uphold our values and defend our University. Across the University, and here at HSDM, we face numerous financial uncertainties. It is in times like this that we must find ways to come together, address our present challenges, and invite dialogue on concerns that crosscut so many areas of our teaching, research, and clinical care mission. I write to you today to provide updates on several opportunities for community engagement and support during this time of uncertainty.
Financial stewardship to advance our collective work
Last week, Dean of Administration and Chief Operating Officer Tom Miller sent guidance to all HSDM budget managers that reflects belt-tightening measures we must take to contain costs. We remain in a hiring pause and are closely evaluating discretionary spending schoolwide. He also announced last week of the cancellation of FY26 cost-of-living increases for exempt staff and faculty. On Wednesday, May 7th from 12 to 1 p.m. we will host a moderated panel discussion for faculty, staff, and fellows on our financial picture in the face of the threatened funding environment. We will provide a transparent overview of the known and unknown risks to our impending operating deficit and how we must approach our response. We encourage you to attend this important session and submit questions in advance.
Additional listening office hour forums for our community
In addition to the ongoing outreach to our research community and international community, we would like to broaden general drop-in office hour offerings beginning the week of April 28th to offer space for community members seeking specific information or support, which will be hosted by various members of leadership in the Office of the Dean, Office for Administration and Finance, Office of Student Affairs, and Office for Faculty Affairs.
- April 30, 12pm – 1pm (REB 202)
- May 8, 12pm – 1pm (via Zoom)
- May 14, 12pm – 1pm (REB 202)
Supporting HSDM’s long-term vision for community and belonging
Fostering a supportive campus life and inclusive HSDM community is more important than ever. Since my State of the School address in February, we have continued to share learnings and invite dialogue around the findings of our school-wide climate survey last semester. Program leaders, faculty and students attended learning sessions in April and a staff learning session is planned next month. I’ve appreciated the engagement in these forums which deepen our collective understanding of community needs and point to ways we can best support and cultivate a culture where all can thrive.
One clear message from our stakeholders continues to be simply finding time to come together as a community. I plan to host a community breakfast on Wednesday, May 14th from 9am-10am as a chance for us to connect with one another.
Additional resources
There are many questions remaining about the impact of recent federal policies. I understand this is an uneasy time, particularly for our researchers and our international students and scholars. Please see the following University resources that cover common questions and concerns:
- FAQ webpage for international student and scholars supported by the Harvard International Office
- Harvard’s Research Funding webpage includes up-to-date information on news and statements on Harvard’s research enterprise, its impact nationally and globally, and what’s at stake based on federal actions taken in 2025.
- Updates on 2025 Federal Research Policy Changes, including all recent university communications, supported by the Office of the Vice Provost for Research
- Consolidated resource guide on safety and well-being information.
During these challenging times, I was recently inspired by the courage and resolve of the Harvard Dental Center staff and practitioners. After facing a temporary closure of the Cambridge practice due to an electrical fire, they quickly pivoted to offer care to their patients in Longwood. I’m grateful for their actions and those of our Facilities and LEMT staff. This embodies the community spirit and resilience found at HSDM. When faced with adversity, we rise to the challenge and support each other. I’m grateful for the strong bonds of our community, and I am confident we can navigate the challenges we face ahead together.
Sincerely,
William V. Giannobile
Dean and A. Lee Loomis Professor of Oral Medicine, Infection and Immunity
Harvard School of Dental Medicine