Making a real difference: How independent campuses are forming lasting relationships

My years as an undergraduate at New York University resonate for me still. We were young radicals en route to changing the world. We were fueled by inspirational teachers and an acute awareness of our own role during those turbulent 60s. Professor Sydney Hook, in my memory, stands out. A famous Marxist who later became a conservative,
he championed our intellectual journey. He taught us that there are two sides to most issues, and that no one has a monopoly on truth in a political debate. As a teacher of philosophy, he shaped our thinking and opened our eyes to the complexities of life.

A new collection of stories illustrates higher education’s role in fostering consequential, lasting relationships. “The Fine Art of Teaching” reveals the positive influence of teachers on their students. You'll want to visit the Web gallery of reflections by former students of a special, inspirational teacher. In The Independent Difference section, we look at undergraduate research and its tremendous impact on students and the community.
In “Brightening New York’s Economy,” our campuses are recognized as good neighbors to their towns and cities. We explore some of the many ways private colleges and universities are bolstering their regions. New York’s private colleges are profiled tackling another pressing community issue in our story on refugees. Finally, in our Environment section, we profile the pledge made by many presidents to eliminate their campuses' greenhouse gas emissions.

Each of these stories reveal how meaningful, collaborative relationships can indeed change our world for the better.

 


Abraham M. Lackman
President, Commission on Independent
Colleges and Universities