To the Editor:

Two recent columns in the Daily have given an entirely incorrect impression about the process for discussion and consideration of the possible expansion of the size of Stanford’s undergraduate class. As co-chairs of the task force responsible for considering this issue, we felt we should correct the record as well as state the critical importance of the student community’s broad participation in this process.

From the very first time the subject was raised by President Hennessy during the fall quarter in Stanford Magazine, it has been clearly stated that this would be an inclusive process involving as many members of the Stanford community as possible. The first step in establishing this process came late last year when President Hennessy appointed a task force with student, faculty, staff and trustee representation. The task force has now met twice and an integral part of its work thus far has been to create a structure that ensures maximum participation and thorough discussion among members of the Stanford community.

To that end, the task force will soon begin a process of outreach that will continue throughout spring quarter — and longer if necessary. We expect these conversations to identify the pros and cons of expansion as well as the impact on Stanford’s academic, residential and social life should such an expansion be pursued. This outreach effort will include public meetings, discussions with faculty, and articles in The Daily and Stanford Report. We are also contemplating the use of technology as a way of gathering additional input from interested members of the Stanford community.

It should be noted that when President Hennessy initiated this discussion last year, he raised a number of issues that would need to be addressed should Stanford move forward with any such plan, among them:

• How would we ensure that we maintain the small classes and seminars for undergraduates?

• Where would the resources come from to maintain the faculty-to-student ratio?

• Where would we house the additional students and how would we finance new housing?

• How would we provide the additional financial aid to ensure that Stanford remains need-blind?

These are just a few of the issues in which we hope to engage the Stanford community as we begin our discussions. We know others will be raised and we look forward to creating useful forums for good interactive discussions.

While President Hennessy has indicated a desire to have a report from the task force sometime in the fall quarter, he understands that the work may extend beyond the fall term and supports a longer timeline. He recognizes the seriousness of the question at hand and the critical importance of hearing from as many people as possible before any final decisions are made.

This is a conversation that will have a serious impact on the future of our university and we do not take it lightly. We all have a stake in the outcome of that conversation and we look forward to your engagement in the process.

Jim Canales

Member, Board of Trustees

Ramon Saldivar

Hoagland Family Professor in the School of Humanities and Sciences