Leadership & Culture
AASCU Members are fostering campus environments where democratic values, civic responsibility, and inclusive participation shape student learning and engagement.
The Value
- Integrating democratic values into campus culture empowers students to become active, engaged citizens committed to the public good.
- Equipping students with civic skills and agency prepares them to navigate complex societal challenges and contribute meaningfully to democracy.
- Fostering inclusive, participatory learning environments strengthens democratic engagement and cultivates a sense of community responsibility.
The Practice
- Align mission and strategy with democratic values. Ensure institutional plans reflect a public purpose and commitment to civic learning and social responsibility.
- Create space for participatory governance. Involve students, faculty, and staff in shared decision-making to model democratic processes on campus.
- Support civic learning across all disciplines. Embed opportunities for public problem-solving and civic inquiry into courses beyond political science or public affairs.
- Develop leadership with a civic lens. Equip institutional leaders to champion democracy, build trust, and advance inclusive campus culture.
- Foster campus dialogue on democratic challenges. Host regular forums where the campus community can engage different viewpoints and explore pressing public issues.
- Build community partnerships for the common good. Collaborate with local organizations to connect students with real-world efforts that strengthen democracy.
