Message from President Lim
Dear Highlanders,
From its very beginning, NJIT has been a trailblazer in expanding access to higher education and preparing students for career success. Over 140 years ago, this institution was established to educate a technical workforce for the City of Newark, a population with limited access to higher education until that time. And throughout our history, we have created opportunities for all of our students to pursue, advance and thrive within the technological and related fields. Our community knows our purpose and will steadfastly commit to our values, our commitments and our responsibilities.
Recent events in the news have indicated there are potentially fundamental changes happening that are impacting research and educational opportunities at universities throughout the country. I understand that this is of serious concern to many within our community, and so I am writing today to make clear where NJIT stands.
The Board of Trustees and I recognize our obligation to adhere to federal and state laws, and we are resolute in our determination to continue the pursuit of our university’s mission and to embody its core values, which include excellence, integrity, civility, sustainability, social responsibility, diversity, and communication. NJIT fills an essential role as an urban, public, polytechnic, research university that is New Jersey’s greatest producer of technological talent and knowledge. We are a research powerhouse, an engine of opportunity, and a welcoming community for all students, faculty, and staff. Excellence and diversity are parts of our DNA and are among our greatest strengths, because learning and innovation happen when talented, intelligent, and dedicated people with different experiences and perspectives share their knowledge, test their assumptions, and work collaboratively to pursue their shared goals.
We will continue to conduct research and creative works that improve lives and the world in which we live. We will continue to support and value all members of our community. And our institution will continue to hold free speech, civil discourse, intellectual curiosity, and academic freedom as essential components of our educational community while ensuring that our campus remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
The commitment to our mission and values that guides our institution is what has made NJIT a great university throughout its history. That also is what continues to make our university a place that attracts talented and hard-working students, faculty and staff from a broad and vibrant array of backgrounds and cultures. That is who we are.
Sincerely,
Teik C. Lim
NJIT President
