One of the most difficult decisions for upper leadership in a university is how to apportion funds for capital improvements and new and ongoing academic programs. Often, the decision comes down to perceptions of what students are looking for in the admission process. However, data about what factors students seek when choosing a college often comes from qualitative reports from the admissions department and perceptions about what leaders expect students and parents to prioritize. For example, many leaders believe that students look for the nicest residence halls, the best meal plans, and easy access to workout facilities when selecting their institution, a perception that might not be true.
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
