21.010 - AERA Opening Plenary Session: The Challenges of Higher Education in a Diverse and Divergent World

Session Type: Invited Speaker Session

Abstract

At this juncture in history, many of the traditional premises and purposes of higher education are being questioned. There is also apprehension about the whether these institutions can still function effectively as safe havens for learning, the exploration of ideas, and the production of knowledge. Such environments have become far too riddled by hate speech, threats, and intolerance of others; uncertainties for international students and the future of immigrant students; and protests related to the meaning and limits of speech and free speech on campuses. In this session, three higher education leaders will address the challenges and complexities that confront institutions in a world of ambiguity and opportunity.

Sub Unit

• AERA Sessions

Chair

• Vivian L. Gadsden, University of Pennsylvania

Speakers

• Cynthia Teniente-Matson, Texas A&M University San Antonio

• Michael A. Olivas, University of Houston

• Jonathan D. Jansen, University of the Free State

Moderator

• Katherine Mangan, The Chronicle of Higher Education