Fairfield 2020 Lecture Series Continues this Fall
The Fairfield 2020 Lecture Series continues this Fall with four engaging speakers who will share thought-provoking perspectives on topics, challenges and opportunities facing higher education in the 21st century. All students, staff and faculty are encouraged to Attend. All lectures are free and take place on campus, from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Oak Room of the Barone Campus Center .
The series begins at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 17, 2014, and features Dr. Michelle R. Weise (pictured) speaking on “A Case for Applied Liberal Arts: Bracing for Disruption.”
With rising student loan debt, freezes and reductions of state subsidies, and a widening skills gap in the U.S. workforce, pressures are mounting on all higher education institutions to be clear about the value of a college degree. Dr. Weise, Senior Research Fellow in Higher Education at the Clayton Christensen Institute , will offer insights into the concept of disruptive innovation and what it means for the future of higher education. She will make a case for applied liberal arts and how small colleges in particular can respond to the possibilities of connecting learning and work. A former Fulbright Scholar and graduate of Harvard and Stanford, Michelle served as a professor at Skidmore College as well as the Vice President for Academic Affairs for Fidelis Education. Her commentaries and research have been featured in a number of publications such as The Economist, The Boston Globe, Inside Higher Ed, The Chronicle of Higher Education, USA Today and National Journal.
Upcoming Fairfield 2020 Lecture Series - FALL 2014, include:
Wed. Oct. 8, Dr. Andrew Delbanco, “The College Mission During Turbulent Times”
Wed. Oct. 29, Dr. Fred Carstensen, “Connecticut’s Economy – Trends for Employment, Careers and Education”
Wed. Nov. 19, Dr. Brandon Busteed, “EduEconomy – Preparing Students for their Future”