On September 5 and 6, 2024, we convened a diverse group of education thinkers, innovators, and leaders at Stanford Law School to consider the role of private colleges and universities in society.

The gathering brought together former college presidents, leaders of national higher education organizations and foundations, distinguished scholars from top research universities, policy experts, legal scholars, education researchers, and representatives from organizations dedicated to experiential learning, workforce development, and public service. This interdisciplinary group included voices from both academic institutions and innovative education organizations, representing perspectives from historically Black colleges and universities, faith-based institutions, and public policy organizations.