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Sustainability and the University
By G. Wayne Clough, Jean-Lou Chameau, and Carol
Carmichael
While universities are often depicted in the popular
press as being at odds with prevailing trends in society, the opposite
is far closer to the truth. The twin developments of the research
university and the land-grant university have, over time, led our
institutions to work together closely in support of both societal and
national goals. For example, following World War II, universities became
involved in research supporting our national defense, a thrust that was
facilitated by funding from the Department of Defense.
Recently, industry has ramped up its support of
university research, as private-sector research laboratories have been
shuttered and industry has found itself more dependent on universities
to sustain the flow of innovative ideas. Although this engagement must
be achieved in harmony with higher education’s core values, it is
necessary if our nation is to continue to compete in a world economy
that is driven by innovation. . . .
Excerpted from the winter 2006 issue of The
Presidency. To subscribe to the magazine, please call (301) 632-6757,
or order online through ACE’s
bookstore.
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