Dive Brief:
- Trinity Washington University President Patricia McGuire writes for Inside Higher Ed about the disintegration of higher education's role in shaping social and industrial conscience for the nation, and how the industry can advance beyond discussion over rankings and workforce development.
- McGuire says that addressing affordability, improving access and setting an example of social awareness are the keys to higher education again becoming the nation's conscience on its most important matters.
- As the nation deals with a grim outlook on race relations, economic prosperity and political collaboration, it is up to college leaders to take a more vocal role on how to improve society's chances for success
Dive Insight:
In a rare editorial showing that doesn't play to political correctness or board, McGuire speaks to the feelings of students, faculty and alumni around the country regarding the changing social climate. But there's an important caveat, as she does so with a level of autonomy as a private university president with only her board and campus constituency to approve or disapprove.
But even with those nuances, McGuire's take is much-needed and should be well-received, even for other leaders who may not have the opportunity to be as vocal — but to match the ideas with campus outreach, student engagement and support for faculty taking similar stances in their voices, work and mobilization efforts.