Michael Roth

Michael Roth, the President of Wesleyan University, is known for his bold takes on higher education and free speech. He critiques the failures of university leadership amid rising anti-Semitism and the resignations of peers at prestigious institutions. Roth discusses the decline in trust in higher education, emphasizing the urgent need for moral leadership. He also explores the influence of Gulf donations on U.S. universities and the challenges faced in fostering genuine dialogue amidst political tensions and shifting generational perspectives.

Danielle Douglas-Gabriel, a National higher education reporter for The Washington Post, and Robert Kelchin, head of the Educational Leadership department at the University of Tennessee, join Michael Roth, President of Wesleyan University. They dive into the Trump administration's controversial funding freezes on major universities due to allegations of anti-Semitism. The discussion highlights the implications for research, university autonomy, and the broader landscape of higher education amidst political pressures and funding cuts.

Michael Roth, President of Wesleyan University and former kitchen worker there, shares his journey from student to leader. He humorously discusses the shift from worker to authority when entering the kitchen. Roth delves into the power of collaborative, blue-collar experiences in fostering connections among students. He reflects on the significance of meaningful work and its impact on personal growth, emphasizing how practical engagement can shape not just individual lives, but broader societal narratives.

Michael S. Roth, President of Wesleyan University, critiques the Trump administration's interference with academic freedom. He discusses how recent investigations into top universities impact diversity programs and threaten funding. Roth emphasizes the importance of defending free speech and the necessity for universities to embrace ideological diversity. He highlights the challenges faced by international students amid political pressures and urges the importance of resilience in defending personal liberties for future generations.

Michael Roth, President of Wesleyan University, discusses the fight for academic freedom against Trump's political pressures, spotlighting Harvard's defiance. David Gibson explores the ideological clash between Pope Francis's advocacy for human rights and Trump's agenda. Kelsey Osgood shares insights from her book on millennial women's faith journeys, analyzing the balance of identity and organized religion. Together, they delve into the broader implications for democracy and the importance of protecting diversity in education.