The US Economic Development Administration defines economic development as the process of creating conditions that improve quality of life and economic growth. Academic leaders in higher education are in a unique position to take action to contribute to economic development in their region while also enhancing student outcomes and employee quality of life. This makes good business sense.
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
