FOIA Request to Upstate Medical University regarding recent course syllabi on August 6, 2025.
A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted by Syracuse Sun, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive news coverage on local governmental affairs. The request was sent to Upstate Medical University in New York on August 6, 2025. The request seeks access to the complete list of course syllabi for all undergraduate and graduate courses offered during the Spring 2025 academic semester. This includes syllabi for courses across all departments, schools, and colleges, regardless of whether they were conducted in-person, online, or in hybrid formats.
The request also asks for relevant metadata associated with each course syllabus. This includes the course title and number, instructor name, department or academic unit, and the course delivery format (online/in-person/hybrid). Syracuse Sun emphasizes that access to these public records is crucial for their role in holding public institutions accountable and ensuring transparency.
The FOIA request also notes that as a member of the media, Syracuse Sun believes it qualifies for a fee waiver due to its professional responsibilities in disseminating information to the public. Additionally, the requestor is affiliated with The Coalition Opposing Governmental Secrecy, a non-profit organization that assists media companies and advocacy groups in investigating governmental agencies through Freedom of Information and Sunshine Laws.
We look forward to receiving this information in an electronic format as it will greatly aid in our reporting efforts. As always, we remain open for any questions or clarifications regarding this request.
