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In a wide-ranging interview, Washington University Chancellor Andrew D. Martin discussed the university’s engagement with the Trump administration, financial challenges, the acquisition of the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy, the implementation of Workday, the decline in international graduate student enrollment, the use of artificial intelligence, and emergency preparedness following a recent armed person alert on campus.

Why it matters

As a leading research institution, WashU’s relationship with federal policymakers and its ability to navigate financial uncertainties have significant implications for the university’s future. The chancellor’s comments provide insight into how the school is adapting to evolving challenges in higher education.

The details

Chancellor Martin detailed WashU’s efforts to advocate for issues like research funding and protecting endowments through engagement with Congress and the Trump administration. He also explained the university’s steps to improve its financial position, including pausing capital projects, cutting central administration expenses, and the strategic acquisition of the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy. Additionally, Martin discussed the university’s transition to the Workday system and the decline in international graduate student enrollment, which has put financial pressure on some master’s programs.

• The chancellor met with the Trump administration in the fall to discuss issues important to WashU.
• In his State of the University address, Martin said the university is in a stronger financial position than a year ago.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

Columbia police responded to reports of shots fired in the area of Redwood Road and West Ash Street early Saturday morning, Columbia Police Department spokesperson Brian McNeil confirmed to KOMU 8 News.

McNeil said officers found evidence of shots fired, but there were no apparent injuries. 

At about 3 a.m. Saturday, officers were dispatched to the scene on West Ash Street after multiple calls regarding shots fired, McNeil said.

KOMU 8 News will continue to provide updates as more information is provided.

SALINA, Kan. (KWCH) – A Missouri man was arrested after allegedly making a bomb threat at a Salina car wash, prompting an evacuation and police response.

According to the Salina Police Department, officers responded around 4 p.m. on Thursday to a report of a bomb threat at Blue Beacon Truck Wash, located at 2303 N. 9th Street.

Police said Brandon Skaggs, 33 of DeSoto, Missouri, entered the business and made a comment referencing terrorism, raising concern among employees. Authorities said Skaggs later went into the pump room and turned off multiple breakers before leaving the scene.

The business was evacuated as precaution while officers investigated the threat. After searching the property, police said no explosive devices were found.

The Kansas Highway Patrol later located Skaggs’ vehicle traveling on I-70 near milepost 287 and took him into custody.

Skaggs was transported back to Salina and booked into the Salina County Jail on charges including criminal threat and trespassing.

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