The Corporatization of America’s Higher Education: Implications of a Growing Business Model on Campus

Corporate sponsorships, changing budget models, and major private gifts are shifting the landscape of higher education. With students now more than ever being seen as consumers in this increasingly globalized world, institutions of higher education across the U.S. are taking a closer look at how they do “business.” The movement toward corporatization of colleges and universities has prompted both rebuke and praise from various stakeholders. On one hand, corporatization encourages colleges and universities to cut costs, develop efficiencies, and potentially create exclusive access to career opportunities and job pipelines for their students. On the other hand, corporatization may call into question the core social and educational mission of the academy. Does a business or industry model undermine an institution of higher learning? How can we analyze the impact and influence of major private gifts on a campus culture? Is it appropriate for college administrators to play a role in the corporate sector? Join this spirited discussion to reflect on these questions and more as we explore the growing business model phenomenon in higher education