To the alumni, friends, family, and community supporters of Doane Forensics,

Doane University's President Jacque Carter has released a slate of academic and administrative programs, positions, and budgets he has recommended for elimination, including the award-winning and life-changing Forensics Program.

The decision does not reflect the facts of the team's solvency or its untapped potential in a competitive and robust state for collegiate speech. The program generates more in tuition dollars than it costs to operate; it has also exceeded historical recruitment targets this year, amid a pandemic.

Other Doane programs—including other student activities that were placed in lower-priority categories than Forensics in Doane's budget prioritization process—have been given the opportunity to meet new recruitment or budget goals in the coming years. Forensics has been slated for elimination outright.

The Doane Board of Trustees will vote on the recommended eliminations on Nov. 9, but a group of team alumni and supporters are gathering to ask the Board to 1) retain the Doane Forensics program and 2) provide guidance and an opportunity for the team to meet new recruitment, budget, or any other targets deemed necessary for the long-term sustainability of this fine program.

Please add your name to this petition to voice your support for this request.