Tania Tetlow, former federal prosecutor and current president of Fordham University, discusses the need to integrate old-fashioned values into modern campuses. She highlights the balance between personal ambition and societal responsibility in education. The conversation dives into campus protests and the complexities of student rights versus responsibilities. Tetlow emphasizes the importance of engaging diverse viewpoints and the challenges of financial sustainability in higher education, particularly for Catholic institutions amid economic pressures.
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Quick takeaways
Tania Tetlow emphasizes the importance of instilling values and discernment in students to foster meaningful societal contributions beyond personal gain.
The podcast highlights the challenges facing higher education, including financial pressures and the need to demonstrate its value in a changing job market.
Deep dives
The Purpose of College
College serves multiple purposes, with institutions like Jesuit universities focusing on not just individual success but also societal impact. Students are encouraged to aspire beyond personal gain, emphasizing the importance of meaningful contributions to the world. The mission extends to equipping students with the necessary tools for personal flourishing and the ability to create positive change. The emphasis on values over mere status highlights a broader perspective on what defines a fulfilling life and career.
Tanya Tetlow's Leadership at Fordham University
Tanya Tetlow, as the first female and lay president of Fordham University, brings a unique perspective to the role through her background as a federal prosecutor and law educator. Her approach to leadership involves navigating the complexities of higher education and addressing the urgent challenges posed by external pressures and internal dynamics. Tetlow's experiences in the legal field shape her understanding of justice and community, essential elements for fostering an inclusive and responsive educational environment. Her presidency aims to balance the institution's Jesuit values with the practical realities of managing an urban university.
The Role of Discernment in Education
Discernment, a critical component of the Jesuit tradition, emphasizes thoughtful decision-making and understanding diverse perspectives. This concept is increasingly relevant in today’s polarized society, where students are taught to engage with differing opinions while maintaining a sense of curiosity and empathy. Tetlow highlights the need for educational institutions to instill these values in students, preparing them to navigate complex social landscapes. The aim is to cultivate a generation that can approach controversial topics with discernment rather than defensiveness.
Challenges and Perspectives in Higher Education
The current landscape of higher education faces increasing scrutiny and challenges, including financial pressures and declining enrollment demographics. Tetlow points out the critical need for universities to justify their value in a rapidly changing job market while addressing concerns about affordability and access. The perception of higher education is further complicated by political discourse that often undermines its significance and impact. Despite these challenges, she advocates for the defense of college as an essential institution for societal progress and collective well-being.
Tania Tetlow, a former federal prosecutor and now the president of Fordham University, thinks the modern campus could use a dose of old-fashioned values.