The wave of first-generation and low-income students now seeking higher ed access is placing unprecedented financial strain on the full spectrum of liberal arts institutions, says James F. Jones, the interim president of Sweet Briar College. But while other higher ed leaders acknowledge this and other challenges, many say the shutting down this year of […]

Fueled by government agendas, national press and public opinion, higher education has in recent years come under increased scrutiny in the form of calls for heightened transparency and accountability. Some of the U.S. Department of Education's initiatives in response include: The College Affordability and Transparency Center, which provides searchable lists of institutions by largest and […]

Need donation spending advice? Turn to the students, as Oklahoma Christian University did. In November, President John deSteiguer announced that students could vote to allocate a recent $275,000 gift to one of six projects in the university’s Thrive campaign. “Students Pick” initiative options were: construction of a campus coffee shop, expansion of the Ethos spiritual […]

Last January, The Campaign for Oregon State University surpassed its $1 billion goal—almost a year ahead of schedule. It was the university's first comprehensive campaign, and it also exceeded its goal of raising $200 million for facilities and equipment—providing all or part of the funds for building, renovating or acquiring more than two dozen facilities. […]