Mighty Edu: Higher Education’s Transformation of Economy, Community, and Life… that’s the book I want to read. Actually, that’s the book I want to write. Okay, it’s a tad lofty. Yet, appropriately so, because what higher ed does is lift up people and place. It is the hub of talent attraction and production. Its economic impact runs deep, and is anchored: campuses do not relocate for better tax incentives. An Appleseed study showed that three research universities in Ohio alone accounted for a total economic impact of over $6 billion (Appleseed Inc., 2006).
A campus is a continuous flow of creativity, research, and social capital, channeling vibrancy into communities and with a global reach. And, yes, too, higher ed provides a life-changing scene for students and employees. In addition to fostering an inspirational living and learning environment and launching graduates into the workforce, college is where numerous people have met their spouse(s). While the numbers have decreased because people are marrying later nowadays, college is still the place where over 25 percent of men meet their wife (National Fatherhood Initiative, 2005).
I could go on and on like a proud papa. This Creative Class Exchange seems like a perfect space to explore The Mighty Edu together, and get that book written! What are some thoughts, stories, chapters you’d like to add regarding higher ed’s influence in these core areas or other areas?