The MIT Moment: The Lesson in This University’s Brave ‘No’ for Every Nonprofit and Philanthropist
I believe that choosing bravery is what we in philanthropic and nonprofit work are called to do – and this is the time to be more courageous and communicative about our values than ever before.
Case in point: MIT just rejected the White House’s proposal to unfreeze millions in federal research funding for requirements that include “capping international student enrollment, freezing tuition for five years, adhering to definitions of gender, and prohibiting anything that would ‘belittle’ conservative ideas.” It’s the first university to do so and the others weighing the administration’s offer have until October 20th to make their own decisions.
It was heartening to see MIT stand up so clearly – and again, unapologetically – with a statement from the university’s president, Sally Kornbluth. “Fundamentally, the premise of the document is inconsistent with our core belief that scientific funding should be based on scientific merit alone,” she wrote, as reported by The New York Times.
And MIT’s stance was useful, perhaps lending cover and courage to others. Shortly after this, for instance, Brown University followed suit, noting the compact “would restrict academic freedom and undermine the autonomy of Brown's governance.”
Having courage in our space doesn’t mean never being uncertain or even afraid, especially at difficult moments when externalities are fraught with tension, public scrutiny, and the potential of political and social blowback. But having courage does mean being true to your convictions and doing the hard things – the ones that others might not be doing because they haven’t yet summoned the same resilience and fortitude.
The other universities in the cohort are rapidly approaching their opportunities to choose bravery as well. Yet some seem to be hedging already.
“Penn seeks no special consideration. We strive to be supported based on the excellence of our work, our scholars and students, and the programs and services we provide to our neighbors and to the world.”
I am deeply committed to Dartmouth’s academic mission and values and will always defend our fierce independence…You have often heard me say that higher education is not perfect and that we can do better. At the same time, we will never compromise our academic freedom and our ability to govern ourselves.”
Perhaps it would help to read Sally Kornbluth’s words for inspiration once more (I’m biased, knowing her and her sterling character). She doesn’t allow herself to be distracted by the administration’s disingenuous claims and untoward demands. Instead, Sally’s simple, focused answer – that science funding is rightly and solely determined by scientific merit – shows unambiguous alignment with organizational conviction. In so doing, she elevates the discourse – and it’s so much more powerful than a point-by-point rebuttal.
What a lesson this offers for every nonprofit and philanthropist right now.
If you are completely aligned on your mission, if you truly believe in your values, then there’s nothing that can shake you from your purpose. The most effective leaders in our collective community are those who do not allow themselves to be distracted – whether it’s by the media, politicians, complaining partners, angry stakeholders, etc., etc. That’s not to say they’re blind to navigating the world and its changing, challenging dynamics. It’s more that brave not-for-profit and philanthropic leaders are unwilling to compromise in ways that fundamentally alter their reason for existence.
Conversely, the more willing organizations are to dance to the tune of others or crumble under pressure, real or perceived, the weaker they actually become. People respect those who adhere to the courage of their convictions. In fact, as I’ve seen time and again in this work, they actually reward organizations – in ways both material (e.g., donations) and intangible (ie, connection-making) for staying the course and showing up authentically.
The lesson?
You exist for a reason, for a purpose that matters. Whether you’re creating a legacy of generosity and impact or delivering on a mission that fundamentally transforms an aspect of our society for the better, you know why you’re on this path.
Hold steady.