Dear Provost Fung & University of San Francisco Leadership,

We, the undersigned faculty, staff, students, USF colleagues, community partners, and concerned citizens, write to express our deep concern and resolute opposition to the proposed closure of the Clinical Psychology PsyD Program at the University of San Francisco. It is critical to note this decision is not being made due to the quality of our program, which was recently awarded full 10-year accreditation by the American Psychological Association, a decision largely based on outcome data which demonstrated we were clearly aligned with national averages -- impressive for such a relatively young program. 

Despite the program's steady growth, over-enrollment during the current academic year, and national recognition, the Dean is using financial concerns as a pretext to close the program. And even though faculty and staff proposed several initiatives to strengthen our program and increase our financial contribution to the university in 2024, these proposals were rejected by leadership. 

Our program resides within a university guided by Jesuit values and principles. Specifically, St. Ignatius calls each of us to use our imagination in discernment, and to consider all possibilities. Within the university, a collaborative process that includes faculty and staff is expected when any program is being considered for deactivation. Sadly, the process that led to the decision to recommend the PsyD program for closure has lacked any collaboration or transparency. Instead, it has been rushed and veiled in secrecy. 

This decision not only jeopardizes the academic and professional futures of current and prospective students, faculty, and staff, but also threatens the broader community that relies on the essential mental health services provided through the program. USF’s PsyD program has long been a pillar of excellence, preparing highly skilled clinicians who serve diverse populations with compassion, integrity, and evidence-based care. Its graduates play a critical role in addressing the mental health crisis, particularly in underserved communities, and uphold the university’s mission of community engagement and social responsibility. The PsyD program has also routinely been recognized for its excellence, most recently receiving a prestigious national APA award for its outstanding commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Closing the PsyD program would have severe and lasting consequences, including:

• Eliminating Access to Vital Mental Health Services: Students and faculty provide invaluable clinical services to the community through practicum sites, university clinics, and outreach initiatives. The loss of this program would directly impact those who depend on these essential services.
• Diminishing Academic and Professional Opportunities: Current students are unwillingly facing a significant interruption of their academic and professional development, which has numerous adverse impacts. Additionally, prospective students seeking high-quality, practitioner-oriented education will be forced to seek alternatives, depriving USF of talent and diversity.
• Undermining the University’s Reputation and Core Values: Closing the PsyD program contradicts USF’s commitment to mental health education, service, and Jesuit traditions. The loss of this program could harm USF’s standing as a leader in psychological training and public service, ultimately impacting academic enrollment.

Our Request to the Administration

We urge the university leadership to RECONSIDER and DENY the recommendation to close the PsyD program put forth by the Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Professions. We remain committed to working with the administration to explore sustainable alternatives that will preserve this vital program and continue its legacy of excellence and service.

Please sign below to show your support. We need signatures by 11:59pm on Friday, March 14, 2025.

Together, we can ensure that the USF PsyD program continues its critical mission for future generations. Thank you for your support, and please share this petition with others who may wish to join this effort.

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