College presidents discuss enrollment declines, volatility in higher ed – University Business
12 college and university leaders convened in Washington, D.C., to discuss their most pressing matters
Top officials from colleges and universities convened the week of September 2 in Washington, D.C., to discuss matters impacting higher education and what’s on the minds of leaders—from sexual assault on campus and public confidence in the higher ed sector to declining enrollment.
Major themes emerged at The Presidents Dinner hosted annually by Pennsylvania’s Bucknell University.
The topic of higher education costs, which Bucknell University President John Bravman told attendees are rising “at a rate well ahead of inflation” and above what the average American household can afford, kicked off the event. Costs are contributing to higher ed’s diminishing reputation in society, he said.
The sector has been “one of the glories of this country and the envy of the world,” but its “core values, our purposes, our efficacy and our costs” are being challenged, he added.