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 30 — Penn’s Expanding Master’s Portfolio

Mar 20, 2026

As master’s programs grow at elite universities, concern over graduates' outcomes is rising. Penn’s priority must remain academic excellence, not just its own revenue.

Issue 29 — Penn's Planning for Growth in an Age of Uncertainty

Mar 13, 2026

At last week's board meetings, the Trustees signaled optimism for Penn's future growth despite headwinds and uncertainty in higher education.

Issue 28 — Penn’s New Model for Funding Innovation

Mar 6, 2026

The traditional model for funding university research is under pressure. Penn is building a new pipeline to support innovation.

Issue 27 — From Intention to Impact for Penn’s Title VI Office

Feb 27, 2026

Penn's Title VI Office launched a university-wide non-discrimination training last month. Can the training be effective if it's voluntary?

Issue 26 — A Strike Avoided, A Budget Tested

Feb 20, 2026

Penn narrowly averted a graduate student strike. Today, we dive into the impacts of the new agreement between the university and the graduate student union.