Anchored by the Classic Learning Test Fired for Success: Dr. Jennifer Frey Breaks Her Silence
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Jul 17, 2025 
Dr. Jennifer Frey, a philosopher and former Dean of the University of Tulsa's Honors College, reflects on her surprising dismissal despite her successes. She discusses the clash between students’ desires for a liberal arts education and the priorities of college administrators. Frey emphasizes the urgent need for reforms in higher education, advocating for authentic liberal learning as vital to democracy. Her insights reveal the deep-seated issues in academia, highlighting the importance of fostering independent thought and trust in educational institutions.
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Building a Thriving Honors College
- Jennifer Frey was hired as inaugural Dean of Honors College at University of Tulsa and moved her family across the country.
- She built a thriving liberal arts program with strong student engagement and diverse viewpoints.
Liberal Arts Lose with Powerholders
- Traditional liberal education remains highly valued by students and donors despite administrative resistance.
- Power structures in academia often deprioritize liberal arts even when they clearly succeed.
Liberal Arts Transcend Politics
- Classical liberal education transcends American partisan politics and appeals to students of diverse backgrounds.
- Young adults crave authentic engagement, not indoctrination, and want to think for themselves.