It was dispiriting to read The Providence Journal's Feb. 24 news story about private dinners hosted by Marty Granoff for Brown students ("Dinners offer peek at culture of privilege"). With no data or facts, the report implies that the dinners are meant to provide “special” opportunities for higher-income students. And it gives little attention to all that Brown does to break down barriers for students from low- and middle-income families.

Brown’s central administration was not aware that some staff in Advancement was providing logistical support for these dinners until reporters brought it to our attention. While the staff did so as a courtesy to Mr. Granoff, the senior vice president of Advancement has made it clear that staff should not be providing support for private events. This practice will not continue.

Brown University continues to demonstrate in concrete and very real ways its commitment to equitable access to opportunities for all students, regardless of their financial circumstances. We admit students on a need-blind basis; have removed loans from financial aid packages; and students have access to life-changing research opportunities and summer internships, mentoring programs, and a multitude of activities to enhance their experience at Brown and their paths after college.

Overall, the report does a grave disservice to Mr. Granoff by casting his generosity in a negative light. The Marty Granoff I know wants to help all students succeed at the Brown he loves. Marty and his wife, Perry Granoff, have generously supported financial aid, internships, faculty hiring and spaces for education and learning. It is highly unfortunate that the Granoffs’ generosity and commitment to the well-being of Brown students has been distorted and misconstrued.

Christina Paxson

Providence

The writer is president of Brown University.

Executive Editor Alan Rosenberg responds: The story went out of its way to be fair to Mr. Granoff, and to report facts about his charitable efforts as well as about the dinners he sponsored. The reporters also sought comment from President Paxson numerous times before its publication, but were rebuffed both by her spokesman and when they attempted to speak to her directly.