New Management Won't Solve Ivy League's Broken Business Model
Resignation of Ivy League Presidents
The resignation of Ivy League presidents is not necessarily a cause for celebration. In December, Liz Magill, the then-president of the University of Pennsylvania, stepped down amid a public relations crisis involving rising antisemitism on campus, widespread protests, and a poorly received appearance before the House Education and Workforce Committee. Similar resignations have followed, including Columbia’s chief administrator, Minouche Shafik. However, these changes in leadership do not address the fundamental issues plaguing these institutions.
Moral Relativism and Lack of Intellectual Diversity
These Ivy League institutions have been criticized for their lack of intellectual diversity, both in faculty hiring and student admissions, leading to a decline in curriculum quality and campus discourse. Administrators have often ignored warnings from heterodox academics, hiding behind lengthy “statements of open expression.” These statements often result in free speech monitors being sent to right-wing events, while action is taken against faculty and students accused of “hate speech.” However, there is a lack of genuine commitment to First Amendment principles.
Interim Presidents and Lack of Substantive Change
Despite the resignation of three presidents, there has been little to no substantial change at these universities. Interim presidents have taken over, and committees have been formed to investigate “hate” on campus, but these efforts have largely been fruitless. The resignation of these presidents has only served to take the heat off the universities, rather than addressing the issues that need to be resolved.
Continued Protests and Lack of Action
Despite the change in leadership, protests have continued at these universities. This is because the problems are much deeper than the leadership. Many of these universities cost upwards of $80,000 a year, leading to a significant student loan debt burden for many Americans. Furthermore, many students are leaving these universities unprepared for citizenship, with a lack of knowledge about the United States and its history.
Failing Business Model
The business model of these Ivy League institutions has been failing for decades, delivering a lackluster product to its consumers. By focusing on the resignation of university presidents, we are only removing an easy target of public criticism, allowing the schools to deflect accountability. If we are serious about reforming higher education, we need to target the business model of higher education, rather than just looking for new management.
Bottom Line
The issues plaguing Ivy League institutions are deep-seated and cannot be resolved simply by changing the management. The business model of these institutions needs to be reevaluated and reformed. What are your thoughts on this? Do you agree that a change in management is not enough to address the problems these institutions are facing? Share this article with your friends and discuss. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
