ANN ARBOR, MI — University of Michigan’s interim president announced a multi-million investment into a civil discourse center, while also condemning responses to last week’s killing of Charlie Kirk.
Interim President Domenico Grasso announced during the Sept. 18 meeting that the university will invest $50 million to establish an institute to promote diverse thoughts and civil debate.
The institute was announced in December 2024 by former President Santa Ono. This is the first mention of a monetary investment into it.
“This center represents a lasting commitment to broadening our campus culture by providing the forum that welcomes all perspectives and fosters respectful engagement,” Grasso said at the Thursday meeting.
Grasso also condemned the responses to the murder of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, which occurred on Sept. 10 at Utah Valley University.
“Violence is never a solution to settling our differences in a society committed to democratic principles and rule of law,” Grasso said at the meeting.
He said at the meeting UM affiliates have posted “hateful, cruel and demeaning” language on social media in response to Kirk’s murder. He labeled their views as “disturbing” and “contrary to our values” but said they “are protected by our First Amendment.”
He mentioned his former role as a U.S. Army officer in his defense of the First Amendment.
“I may disagree with you, but I will forever defend your right to speak out,” Grasso said. “One of my priorities as president is for the nation to look to Michigan as a model for higher education for civil and robust discourse on critical issues.”
Grasso said the university plans to open the institute by next spring, and it will serve as a resource to all three UM campuses.
Regent Sarah Hubbard shared her excitement about the new initiative, saying it will make UM “a better place.” She also hopes the $50 million investment is “just the beginning.”
“I’m hopeful we can get speakers on campus and use that as an opportunity to expand the discussion even further and potentially bring in lots of different kinds of people from all walks of life to talk about civil discourse,” she said.
Grasso pointed to the university’s Look to Michigan vision, formerly Vision 2034, and one of its pillars emphasizing democracy, civic and global engagement.
“Silencing voices is anathema to a great university like ours,” Grasso said. “Our common ground, in pursuit of the common good, must be reasoned discourse and civility.”