South SFV Today

University leaders at Stanford welcomed families to campus during the annual Family Weekend event. President Jonathan Levin addressed parents of undergraduates, emphasizing the unique environment Stanford offers its students. "The kind of culture and spirit of the American West – where we’re located – it just opens up your mind to different opportunities," he said.

Levin highlighted that students at Stanford have the chance to explore diverse interests and cultures, which he considers central to the student experience. The event took place at Memorial Auditorium and featured discussions with Provost Jenny Martinez and Vice Provost for Student Affairs Michele Rasmussen on how Stanford supports its students.

Levin acknowledged challenges facing American higher education, including threats to federal research funding and diminishing trust in universities. He stressed the importance of renewing the social contract between universities and the nation, a partnership that has historically supported innovation through federal investment in basic research.

"There is probably no university in the country that has done that more successfully than Stanford," Levin noted, referencing innovative companies founded by alumni.

Provost Martinez discussed free speech on campus, likening it to research by promoting curiosity and openness to different perspectives. "It’s that open-mindedness and curiosity that pushes the frontiers of science forward," she said.

Vice Provost Rasmussen emphasized student-driven campus culture, expressing admiration for their creativity in shaping social life. She stated, "I see very much that our role in student affairs is to provide the necessary supports and guidance."

During a Q&A session, Levin addressed concerns about federal policy changes impacting college admissions. He expressed disappointment over a Supreme Court ruling against race-conscious affirmative action, noting a decline in underrepresented minority students at Stanford.

"It was very disappointing," Levin remarked, underscoring diversity as an important priority for the university.

Levin also responded to questions about artificial intelligence's impact on education. Vice President Divya Ganesan shared her experience with ChatGPT, emphasizing original thinking as key to a Stanford education: "I don’t want to be a B+ or ChatGPT+ student – I want to be myself with original thinking and ideas."

Looking ahead, Levin expressed his vision for Stanford's future as open to new ideas and innovations from around the world. "This is an incredible time for discovery on campus," he said.

In closing remarks, Levin praised student engagement post-pandemic as a high point of his year: "I was hopeful about that coming into the year, and it’s been wonderful to see that playing out with your children."