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 33 — Who Holds Penn’s Power Over Open Expression?

Apr 10, 2026

Penn’s draft new open expression guidelines improve on temporary rules. But they also raise a range of concerns, including the concentration of authority.

Issue 32 — Judge Rules Penn Must Release Jewish Employee Information

Apr 4, 2026

A judge ordered Penn must hand over personal contact information of Jewish employees to the EEOC. The university is expected to appeal.

Issue 31 — Opening the Window to Penn’s New Open Expression Policies

Mar 27, 2026

Penn outlined a new process for developing permanent open expression guidelines. Today, we consider the procedure's implications.

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.