Revised remarks from December 9, 2023, commencement speech at West Texas A&M University. At the height of the Great Depression, James Trustlow Adams first used the term āAmerican Dream.ā He said, among other things, in āThe Epic of America,ā thatā¦
The Hechinger Report recently published a piece regarding rural college students feeling āoverwhelmed on big campuses.ā California State University, Chico is targeting rural students and working diligently to address their needs. A worthy and noble effort to be sure, butā¦
Flyover Country is where I live. This term is commonly used in the United States to refer to the central parts of our nation, especially the rural areas between the East and West coasts, you know, where all the ārednecksāā¦
Originally posted June 13, 2021, but worth a second look. Ā The Core Curriculum at universities (not to be confused with āCommon Coreā), sometimes called general education requirement, is determined by faculty and legislative leadership. Unfortunately, some students, parents, and evenā¦
When confronted with challenging times like ours, it is easy to lose heart, appreciation, gratefulness and admirationāin a word, thanksgivingāfor the people and places we call home. Our University has been fortunate to have many distinguished leaders. One of thoseā¦
Changes instituted by leadership often cause stress within organizations. Change is unsettling and creates uncertainty, making people feel insecure about roles, responsibilities and the organization’s future. There may be concerns about new processes, technologies or structures that could alter jobā¦
The relevance of any curriculum at any university in the context of rapid technical and cultural changes is a pressing concern for all: educators, students, parents and employers alike. A traditional curriculum typically refers to a structured and prescribed courseā¦
The term “alma mater” is used by thousands of graduates from universities worldwide to refer to the college or school they attended. Its meaning, derived from Latin, is translated as “nourishing mother.” The University of Bologna, founded over one millenniumā¦
In a recent book from Harvard Education Press, former faculty member, dean, provost and president Brian Rosenberg summed up his thinking clearly in the title: “Whatever It Is, I’m Against Itā: Resistance to Change in Higher Education.ā Rosenberg says universitiesā¦
As students and families begin the annual search for universities next fall, I offer suggestions about what they might look for. Is the university accredited? What is its reputation? What programs and courses are offered? What is the cost, andā¦
Since its inception, the GI Bill has disbursed multiplied billions of dollars in education benefits to millions of veterans and their families. Some elected leaders consider it the most important piece of federal legislation ever produced. After being signed byā¦
In the last 70 years, educators have gone from expressing a keen interest in teaching values to little interest, if any. I am not sure what makes this discussion so difficult, but I do know that students, even in graduateā¦
Being involved and engaged helps create a sense of belonging and effectiveness. Students involved in student government learn effective skills that contribute to future success. We believe effectiveness is not just representing student views but understanding how a large organization,ā¦
The American Association of Colleges and Universities defines inclusion as “the active, intentional, and ongoing engagement with diversity in the curriculum, in the co-curriculum, and in communities (intellectual, social, cultural, geographical) with which individuals might connect in ways that increaseā¦
After the Nazi Blitz and the destruction of the Commons Chamber, Winston Churchill insisted in 1943 that the chamber’s plan remain the same when rebuilding was complete. Churchill believed the chamber was responsible for the two-party system of the Britishā¦
Over the past decade, several concerns have caused people to question the value of a college education. A New America study in 2022 revealed there are “lots of well-paying, stable jobs that people can find with only a high schoolā¦
The early part of the 21st century has rapidly shown us much about our changing world. It has taught us that the 20th century problem-solving models will not suffice in the new era. As a professor and leader at fourā¦
A general, misbegotten perception that all universities are, or should be, alike pervades society. Nothing could be further from the truth. Such treatment diminishes the purpose of many universities. Rather, it is critically important to recognize different institutions have differentā¦
Large organizations can exploit size to create an economy of scale. It is singularly, the best argument for bigness.Ā This may be true when making automobiles, electric coffee pots, shoes, or growing corn or wheat.Ā In human service organizations, andā¦
Sixth and final in a series on strengths of regional universities Regional universities are associated with the places in Texas that produce the food, fuel and fiber that nourish, power and clothe our state and nation. They frequently serve ruralā¦
Fifth in a series on strength in regional universities While it is impossible to catalog all of the expectations that any university has for applicants, there are some general considerations that all students should consider if college is in theirā¦
Fourth in a series on strengths in regional universities. The nature of university students is changing. According to the Education Data Initiative, nearly 16 million undergraduate students are enrolled in college as of 2020. That represents a 4.3% decline overā¦
Third in a series on strengths in regional universities. University admission standards have been a bone of contention in higher education for nearly two centuries. Before the progressive movement in the United States, admission to public and private universities wasā¦
Second in a series on strengths in regional universities. The following quote was posted regarding a class I taught in 2015: I teach in a classroom that has students from Nepal, Benin, Moscow, Vietnam, and China, as well as first-generationā¦
First in a series on strength in regional universities. The quality of universities in America was considered the best in the world just a decade ago, according to the New York Times. Quality comes from the relationship of the universityā¦
The following reflection is one of six focusing on the importance of university research initially posted a decade ago. The following, modified modestly here, appeared on January 8, 2012. Sixth in a Series on Research Escalating financial exigency increasingly encouragesā¦
The following reflection is one of six focusing on the importance of university research initially posted a decade ago. The following, modified modestly here, appeared on December 11, 2012. Fourth in a Series on Research Research creates interest and valueā¦
Above, speaking to students at Randall High School.Ā I will resume the reflections on university research next week. University leaders are required to make bold and innovative decisions. Never has innovation in higher education been needed more. However, ideas areā¦
The following reflection is the third of six pieces focusing on the importance of university research. This series was initially posted a decade ago. The following, modified modestly here, appeared on December 4, 2012. Third in a Series on Researchā¦
The following reflection is the second of six pieces focusing on the importance of university research. This series was initially posted a decade ago. The following, modified modestly here, appeared on November 27, 2012. Second in a Series on Researchā¦
The following reflection is one of six pieces focusing on the importance of university research. This series was initially posted a decade ago. The following was published on November 20, 2012. First in a Series on Research Ā Learning creates ideasā¦
West Texas A&M University walks with veterans to create a better University and a better Panhandle. While serving all students is in our heart and soul, there is a special place for veterans. They have put their lives on theā¦
A study of West Texas A&M University’s economic impact in 2017-2018 was carried out by Emsi, a labor market analytics firm that has in the last 20 years conducted 2,000 economic impact studies. They are national leaders. WT’s contribution toā¦
In 1976, at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, a young man came into my office with significant concerns. He was from a small town on Bayou Lafourche in Lafourche Parish, Louisiana. It was not far from Houma and Thibodaux,ā¦
Rural folks produce the food, fuel and fiber that powers our state and nation. Texas dwarfs all other states in the nation in the number of beef cows produced, with over 4.6 million. Texas ranks fourth nationally in milk production,ā¦
On Feb. 2, Bill Cofer, a retired Pampa business leader, committed a $1.5 million endowment to create a scholarship that will be given to students from White Deer and Pampa high schools in alternating years to attend West Texas A&Mā¦
I have talked about the problem of student debt and have diligently worked for West Texas A&M University to be part of the solution to over-indebtedness. All the while, Texas is losing students to other states where out-of-state costs mayā¦
The challenges facing universities as we approach the mid-21st century are growing. Despite those challenges, United States institutions frequently top international rankings. And that perch reveals other nations aggressively mimicking our nation’s leaders. Competition is positive, and this is whyā¦
To label West Texas A&M University, or any university, as a manifestation of American Enlightenment thinking might be seen as hyperbole or plain old bragging. However, it is worth reflecting on enlightenment principles to serve our region well. For nearlyā¦
The season of decision-making for many college students is upon us. Applications have been prepared and sent to universities. Discussions with family and friends have been pursued. Assessments of costs, financial aid and scholarships are being deliberated. A major factorā¦
Fewer expressions bring greater disappointment, trepidation and remorse than “I quit.” Vince Lombardi helped create the anxiety of “I quit.” You know the quips: “Winners never quit, and quitters never win.” Or, how about this one “It’s not whether youā¦
The worth of post-secondary education is increasingly questioned, according to Forbes. The return on investment of bachelorās degrees, masterās degrees and doctoral degrees are all the subject of much discussion. Many corporations no longer require a bachelorās degree: Apple, Google,ā¦
Colleges and universities will face many challenges in 2023. Some are the same-oldāsame-old. Others are brand-new based on changing aspirations and perceptions of students, families, elected and appointed leaders and the world of employers. Institutions should increase niche market offerings.ā¦
This reflection was originally published on December 15, 2008. It is refreshed and worth another look. Ā Christmas memories are personal, deep and important to me. My familyās New York Christmases, with their strong, first generational influence of Western Europe; Cajunā¦
Originally penned in 2014, but some things just wonāt go away. The road to hell is paved with good intentions. No bureaucracy in public service or private enterprise ever starts out as anything but a step toward fairness and excellence,ā¦
Originally written a decade ago (October 2013) but worth a second look, as the updated advice still has value. Many high school seniors are currently making important decisions about where to study next year. Itās the season when many soon-to-beā¦
As social attitudes and perspectives, ebb and flow universities are impacted and in some cases become barometers for measuring change and even predicting it. Fitch Ratings ā Chicago/New York in a September 19, 2022 report predicts that enrollment trends willā¦
Tenth and final in a series regarding Panhandle values and quality of life. Palo Duro Canyon and the challenging, unforgivingly stingy, unceasingly crusty regional geography drive people to band together into groups. It’s the Panhandle’s nature. In contrast to theā¦
When confronted with challenging times like ours, it is easy to lose heart, appreciation, gratefulness and admirationāin a word, thanksgivingāfor the people and places we call home. Our University has been fortunate to have many distinguished leaders. One of thoseā¦
Eighth in a series regarding Panhandle values and quality of life. In his 1893 essay, “The Significance of the Frontier in American History,” Frederick J. Turner recognizes the importance of faith and revivalism in America’s westward expansion in the 19th-century.ā¦
Seventh in a series regarding Panhandle values and quality of life. From a reflection almost two years ago, the following was noted: The Carson County Courthouse is the hub of Carson County in Panhandle, Texas, representative of many Panhandle courthouses.ā¦
Sixth in a series regarding Panhandle values and quality of life. This reflection is modified but was initially posted in February 2021. The concept ofĀ patriotism is recognized as love or devotion to one’s country. I believe patriotism is cultivated fromā¦
Fourth in a series regarding Panhandle values and quality of life. All universities have an economic impact on the regions and communities in which they are located. University education is a combined public and private good, benefiting everyone in theā¦
Third in a series regarding Panhandle values and quality of life. Social groups, from two people to two million, are joined together by earnestly regarding others. As old as humanity, this natural law is infused in the hearts of Panhandleā¦
Second in a series regarding Panhandle values and quality of life. Hard work is a well-understood value in many places. West Texas A&M University appreciates its’ import. In the Texas Panhandle, it’s a fact of life. Diane Meyer claims hardā¦
The enrollment challenges that universities face in the coming decade will be assigned to the enduring impact of COVID-19. While part of emerging trends, it’s not the complete ledger. Birthrates are down nationally, as is college readiness. In Texas, 90%ā¦
The following is comprised of quotes from previously published reflections regarding student debt. Ā For 15 years, I have written about the consequences students face when over borrowing. There are no silver bullets. What will reduce indebtedness? Personal and corporate responsibilityāexercisedā¦
Oxford Reference defines mental toughness: A quality of mind or intellect characterized by, among other things, a refusal to be intimidated, a determination to finish a contest even when things are going badly, and an ability to control emotions andā¦
Seventh and final in a series of reflections on student life at West Texas A&M University. Over the past six weeks, we have addressed many issues regarding the University’s responsibility to engage students in leadership experiences. The value of leadershipā¦
Sixth in a series of reflections on student life at West Texas A&M University. Historically, leadership was naturally developed in the home. Families had a built-in leadership structure. As the family structures have broken down, natural leadership factories have alsoā¦
Fifth in a series of reflections on student life at West Texas A&M University. Ā According to Forbes, leaders lead everywhere they go, not solely in industries. Universities should be developing leaders who solve the problems that challenge our communities. Anā¦
Fourth in a series of reflections on student life at West Texas A&M University. One of the critical aspects of student life on a university campus is for students to become accustomed to, comfortable with and appreciative of the powerā¦
Third in a series of reflections on student life at West Texas A&M University. Of all the issues challenging students in pursuit of undergraduate degrees in universities across the nation, the most important is retention. Retention measures the number ofā¦
Second in a series of reflections on student life at West Texas A&M University. For students to engage in a rewarding and complete campus experience, little is more important than the foundation laid in the first year. Many universities haveā¦
First in a series of reflections on student life at West Texas A&M University. The core function of any University is to satisfy student aspirations for a rewarding professional and personal life. As University leaders, we recognize there is noā¦
West Texas A&M University has recently deepened its partnership with our region’s community colleges and is committed to engaging rural areas with smaller populations. In addition, we are working with business and industry leaders to create more commerce that attractsā¦
This reflection was originally posted on March 26, 2013. It is worth another look. Real leadership liberates, never limits: it unleashes people to work with passion. Effective universities recognize that strength in academic programs exists on the ground, with engagedā¦
This reflection was originally posted on November 2, 2011. I think our faculty, staff, students and administration at WT are making great strides towards a performance culture. I am proud to be associated with this institution. We aspire to theā¦
In the following reflection, historical quotes use the word āman.ā I understand the utilization of “man” as indicative of all human beings. Racism is a sin against God. It’s abhorrent. On April 6, West Texas A&M University held its annualā¦
Fifth and final in a series on philanthropy in higher education Campaigns have become the staple of most non-profit fundraising. The first fundraising campaign in the United States is believed to have taken place in 1641 when Harvard College representativesā¦
Previously published but updated here as the council is still worthwhile.Ā High School Graduates ā Soon, millions of people like you, full of hope and anticipation, will transition from high school to college. Privilege may have provided engaged deliberative parentingā¦
Originally published over a decade ago in the Chicago Tribune (May 17, 2012), but updated here. Dear Graduating Senior, I am begging your pardon for a somber reflection amidst the joy of the near completion of high school ā notā¦
Fourth in a series on philanthropy in higher education Philanthropy is essential to all universities, especially public regional research universities. Donor giving demonstrates commitment and allows the joining of hands with institutional leaders, faculty, staff and students to pursue ideas,ā¦
Third in a series on philanthropy in higher education In 2020, according to the Council for Advancement and Support of Higher Education, nearly $50 billion flowed into University coffers. Over half of all giving, 55.5%, came from foundations (43% wereā¦
Second in a series on philanthropy in higher education Scholarships have always been central in higher education philanthropy. As costs for higher education, both public and private, increase, the impact and importance of student financial support have escalated. Over theā¦
First in a series on philanthropy in higher education Higher educational giving is exceeded only by giving to faith-based organizations in our nation. Americans gave $471.44 billion to charitable causes in 2020. Religious giving topped the list with 28% ofā¦
Sixth and final in a series on Intercollegiate Athletics. Texas is home to 25 Division I athletics programs ranging in size from Texas A&M University (big) to Houston Baptist University (small). Nine football teams compete at the Football Championship Subdivisionā¦
Fifth in a series on Intercollegiate Athletics. Texas has 53 colleges and universities competing in three National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) divisions. These institutions belong to 11 different conferences comprised of many out-of-state members from coast to coast andā¦
Second in a series on Intercollegiate Athletics. The significant changes being thrust upon college athletics in recent months have markedly reshaped the concept of student-athletes. Or have they? Ronald A. Smithās The Myth of the Amateur reveals that James Hogan,ā¦
Ā This is the third piece, published in November 2017, after I arrived in Canyon. Relationships with communities is as important now, as it was then. Communities and the universities they host are married to each other. When one partner growsā¦
In continuation of sharing the first four reflections published in November 2017, this is the second piece I wrote after my arrival at WT. In 1769, Charles Thompson received financial aid from John Hobbsās widow to study the ministry atā¦
-Buff courts under construction, looking north- In the coming weeks, I will publish the first four reflections posted in November 2017 after arriving at WT. I started this process to share thoughts about WT, our purpose and our passions. Iā¦
First in a series on Intercollegiate Athletics. The impact of intercollegiate athletics on universities and colleges around our nation is undeniable. More than 460,000 students compete in intercollegiate athletics, the vast majority using their athletic ability to help fund, inā¦
Sixth in a series on student educational debt. Ā The decision to borrow in pursuit of a college education is personal, but 45 million borrowers eventually impact the U.S. economy and therefore every American. The after-effects are persistent and pervasive, andā¦
Fifth in a series on student educational debt. There is something powerful about coming from behindābeing an underdog. Students who are first-in-family to attend college, single parents, the offspring of immigrants or students of diverse backgrounds whose parents may haveā¦
Fourth in a series on student educational debt. Upon completing baccalaureate and professional degrees, student indebtedness varies markedly across various races, ethnic groups, family income levels, whether or not students are first-in-family to attend college and the geographic region orā¦
Third in a series on student educational debt. While indebtedness for a college education can be debilitating for many, it can be especially crippling to single parents. For instance, one 48-year-old single mom has a cumulative debt of $430,000 forā¦
Second in a series on student educational debt. Nearly everyone looks at student debt as a national problem. āTrue ādat,ā as they say in South Louisiana, but it must be viewed from the state, institutional and personal level simultaneously. Hereā¦
Expect several changes in higher education to intensify in 2022. Families and students should look for universities that willingly respond to a changing world: a triangle of triage is at work. Enrollment at regional universities has been a challenge thisā¦
First in a series on student educational debt. Over the past decade, I have routinely reflected on the dilemma of student debt. Topics such as the educational indebtedness of Social Security recipients, the role of personal responsibility in accrued debt,ā¦
The anthem of the Rolling Stones and the genesis of the British invasion, ā(I Canāt Get No) Satisfaction,ā moaned in depressingly plain language that āsatisfactionā was impossible. The students of the 1960s loved it. Millennials and post-millennials question a newā¦
From their earliest inception, universities in the United States have burned bright with fires fueled, thoughtful opportunity fanned into flames, creating a stronger, more robust, free society. These fires were built to recognize that individuals, a collection of selfās, wouldā¦
As seniors in high school contemplate graduation at the end of the school year, their possibilities are nearly endlessāno matter a studentās class rank or personal opportunities and challenges faced, are facing or will soon face. Configuring the post-high schoolā¦
Higher education is changing remarkably in response to digitization, demographics, and increasingly diverse market forces. Smaller public and private regional universities that educate half the nation’s students will likely be challenged in the future. Those that don’t adapt will falterā¦
Originally published December 11, 2011, in the Chicago Tribuneāslight modifications have been made. As we start the school year, amid a storm of moral relativism, fear and doubt, this may be as appropriate for the autumn and the start ofā¦
Originally published on December 4, 2009, as the first in a series of thoughts regarding the intersection of faith and reason in university life. Slight modifications are made here. In this age of shifting morality and the seeming absence ofā¦
