On Election Day, OHSU remains centered on its values
Oregon Health & Science University Interim President Steve Stadum, J.D., sent the following message to OHSU members:
Dear OHSU members,
Today marks the end of the 2024 general election — one that has felt contentious and divisive to many OHSU members and people around the country.
While the presidential candidate voted into office can and will — directly and indirectly — have an impact on OHSU, I want to take this opportunity to reassure our community that regardless of the outcome, OHSU stands resolute in its values, and will not waver from our duty and responsibility in supporting the health and well-being of people in Oregon and beyond.
Indeed, while many matters related to science, education and health care have become politicized, we, as Oregon’s academic health center, must stay focused on the importance of our work.
We are a community of healers. We understand the power of scientific inquiry and discovery, and their role in tackling the world’s most pressing health care problems. We are dedicated to advancing health equity. OHSU will continue to support transgender and gender-nonconforming communities and will continue leading the way for equity and inclusivity for our LGBTQIA+ patients and employees. We know access to abortion and fertility treatments are fundamental health care rights, and we will continue to provide the full continuum of reproductive health care to all patients, and to educate the next generation of clinicians and scientists.
These values will guide our people, our programs and operations and our institution as a whole, regardless of who is elected.
After today’s election, control of government branches may change, but OHSU’s core values will remain. To most effectively achieve our missions and best serve the people of Oregon, we must stay centered on our values and work together as one university. We must also take care of ourselves and loved ones as the votes are counted and the outcome emerges locally and nationally. This will likely be an emotional and stressful time for many, so please use OHSU’s Well-being resources as needed, and continue to support each other in the days, weeks and months ahead.
I look ahead to the future with hope, and I thank the OHSU community for living our institution’s values day in and day out.
Sincerely,
Steve Stadum, J.D.
Interim President