Welcome to Franklin’s Forum

A community of Penn alumni committed to academic excellence, the pursuit of truth, free expression, and governance focused on self-improvement.

Latest newsletters

Issue 37 — The Problem with Too Many Competing Plans

May 15, 2026

Across the university and its 12 schools, Penn has introduced competing strategic visions. How does the community know which one to follow?

Issue 37 — Penn Asked the Community to Speak. Did It Truly Listen?

May 8, 2026

Penn asked for input while revising its Open Expression Guidelines. Some perceive the feedback process as purely performative.

Issue 36 — A Strong Start but an Incomplete Foundation

May 1, 2026

Penn’s College is launching a new first-year liberal arts curriculum centered on “College Foundations,” but it falls short in teaching students how to engage with one another.

Issue 35 — To Move Forward, Penn Must Look Back

Apr 24, 2026

The university announced the marquee initiatives of Penn Forward, its new strategic plan. They fall short of the bold, innovative change that was promised.

Issue 34 — Rebuilding the Path to Teaching at Penn

Apr 19, 2026

Penn’s new Education Minor creates a direct avenue into teaching for undergraduates and serves as a model for expanding public service pathways.