Editor’s note: The Wall Street Journal published a front-page story Aug. 29, 2026, claiming Syracuse University can’t attract enough students to pay the bills. It cited high cost of tuition, SU’s academic standing and its location in “gritty” and “geographically isolated” Syracuse as f actors for an enrollment shortfall. The story painted a dire picture of the university’s finances, which took a hit from the Trump administration’s clampdown on international students. Higher education institutions across the country are facing similar headwinds. Chancellor J. Michael Haynie responded to the story in this letter to the SU community. It is reprinted with permission. ...read more read less