“The Charles Koch Foundation’s goal in supporting colleges and universities is to provide resources to faculty and students to facilitate a deeper understanding of the nature of free societies and the reasons why they foster the highest levels of well-being for the overwhelming majority of people.
“Our support of Florida State University stems from their decades-long record of innovative research and teaching on the ideas of economic freedom and societal progress. We are excited that our funding enables FSU to continue its tradition of academic excellence.
“When FSU faculty spoke to us about supporting its economics department, we welcomed the opportunity to work with such distinguished scholars. Our agreement with FSU is consistent with faculty governance policies and procedures, and at every step in the recruitment process, FSU faculty control the selection and hiring of professors.
“Opposition directed at respected FSU administrators and faculty undermines the very academic freedom that critics claim to defend. We affirm our support for academic freedom and consider it foundational in fostering a vibrant academic environment. Faculty should be allowed to pursue the research and teaching of their choice. Regardless of ideology, everyone should be supportive of research and teaching dedicated to understanding the conditions that create the most opportunity and prosperity for individuals.
“The Charles Koch Foundation appreciates President Barron’s leadership on this issue and Florida State’s commitment to academic freedom. We look forward to continuing our work to support the efforts of some of this country’s finest universities and their researchers and teachers.”