@ SMU Office a dhe Presicor August 2, 2017 Govemtor Greg Abbott P.O. Box 12428 Austin, TX 78711 Dear Governor Abbott: | received your letter regarding the decision to move large displays from the Dallas Hall Lawn to MoMlac Park. { regret that you have been given incorrect information regarding this change. ‘Therefore, | would like to clarify the change in our policy for large displays. | would like to first note that SMU considers this memorial event to be a significant contribution to our campus community's remembrances of September 11. Our community has had multiple memorials in remembrance of the lives lost that day, and we will contine to do 50. Regarding the move, as you can see from the attached map, the new location is, in fact, in the heart of campus, not “a far comer of campus.” Therefore, if the heart of campus is where it should be, MoMac Park would fit that description more than Dallas Hall since Dallas Hall is one of our northern-most buildings. The 9/11 display is one of many displays over the past few years that have taken place on the Dallas Hall lawn, This lawn is place where our campus community members sather for University events, outdoor classes, studying and breaks between classes. In order to mect requests that the Dallas Hall lawn be available for these and other activities, we selected a location right in the heart of campus, in which the principles of free speech and support for student participation in public issues would continue to be upheld. ‘Asai result can assure you that SMU is unalterably dedicated to shaping the future leaders for our state, nation, and world and is unwavering in our commitment 10 provide opportunities for civil and civic participation and free expression. 1 appreciate Yyour interest in our campus activities. Best C Gerald Turner President Attachments World Changers Shaped Here Sourhorn Mthonlne University FO Ban 7801000. Dalla TX 75275-0100 214-704.3300 Fax os 384