The Challenge

Higher education institutions and their leadership are frequently criticized for policies and practices seen as intolerant, discriminatory, inconsistent, or political. With increased pressure from donors, boards, students, politicians, and the public, many college presidents feel isolated in navigating the current climate. There are limited opportunities for them to communicate, empathize, and collaborate with fellow presidents. Fewer still are spaces to interact with leaders from diverse types of institutions and ideologies different from their own. Presidents seek engagement with peers on lessons learned and best practices in addressing campus issues and preparing students to be effective citizens.

College Presidents for Civic Preparedness Can Help

Confidential Forums offer a space for peer learning. In these confidential sessions, presidents openly discuss challenges, share insights, and engage with each other and outside experts on urgent topics such as student voter engagement, managing campus protests, faculty social media policies, or navigating presidential election cycles. The meeting style is heavily participatory and focused on actions and outcomes that shape the direction of higher education. Campus leaders are empowered to champion civic preparedness across curriculum and campus life and work together in establishing new advocacy opportunities for the field.