Public Trust Requires Both Reform and Defense

Higher ed must be better at making changes, communicating its value and owning its mistakes. To the editor:

, and Administrator

2025 December 20 . 5:14 AM

1 min read

It is an university and there are many students moving around the university,in between there is a... — It is an university and there are many students moving around the university,in between there is a garden and around the garden there are a lot of trees.

Public Trust Requires Both Reform and Defense

Higher education is facing a growing trust crisis, with critics questioning its value and responsiveness. The American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) has launched an initiative to address these concerns and rebuild confidence in the sector.

The new programme, Advancing Public Trust in Higher Education, aims to make universities more adaptable, transparent, and welcoming. Co-directed by Jeremy C. Young, Senior Advisor for Strategic Initiatives, and Kathryn Enke, Vice President for Leadership and Strategy, the initiative highlights the need for faster reforms and clearer communication.

The sector has struggled to counter criticism effectively, often failing to explain its decisions or showcase its broader benefits. Internal resistance to change and weak public engagement have worsened the problem. The AAC&U believes a stronger defence of higher education’s role—alongside meaningful reforms—will help restore trust. The initiative calls for a balanced approach: improving internal practices while better articulating the sector’s contributions. Universities must engage more with local communities, support all students, and demonstrate their impact on knowledge and student success.

The AAC&U’s effort seeks to create a more responsive and trusted higher education system. By addressing criticism, speeding up reforms, and communicating its value, the sector aims to rebuild public confidence. The success of the initiative will depend on how well institutions adapt and collaborate.