Institutions in higher education have been hit hard by the pandemic. Events over the past year have exposed weaknesses, deficiencies, and vulnerabilities that threaten their potential to be successful and compete effectively.
Students have been hit hard as well. Numerous studies show the mental health impact on college students, who are now experiencing depression, anxiety, and loneliness (see, e.g., Boston University, 2021). People are stressed, exhausted, and craving connection.
Character (Still) Counts: Moral Injury and the Case for Character Education
Many academic leaders remember the Character Counts! initiative from the 1990s and early 2000s. It was visible in schools and youth programs nationwide, emphasizing as core values the Six Pillars
Teresa Maggard Stephens
June 15, 2026
