The joint statement from the American Council on Education, Association of American Universities, Association of Public and Land-grant Universities, and the Council on Governmental Relations addresses the critical issue of safeguarding research and development at U.S. higher education institutions in light of evolving national security threats. The associations emphasize the shared responsibility between universities and the federal government to protect sensitive research from foreign interference and espionage. They highlight the significant collaborative progress made through existing partnerships and outreach initiatives with federal agencies such as the FBI, CIA, NSA, and various governmental departments, and they express appreciation for programs that have enhanced campus security and compliance with export controls.
However, the associations voice regret over the recent disbanding of the FBI’s National Security Higher Education Board (NSHEB), noting its value as a forum for direct, high-level dialogue between university leaders and federal security officials on critical matters such as counterintelligence, cybersecurity, and workforce training. The statement underscores the need to reestablish or replace such collaborative venues, especially given current challenges. The associations reaffirm their commitment to advancing both national security and scientific progress, inviting continued dialogue with Congress and proposing deeper engagement to further address campus-based security issues associated with research, while ensuring the effective protection of intellectual assets integral to national interests.
