Project on Public Research University Futures

The organizational structure, governance arrangements, mission, and funding system for research universities in the U.S. were established in the mid-20th century. Although the strengths of these norms and structures helped make U.S. research universities the envy of the world, this system of governance also has weaknesses that have fueled fundamental problems in recent decades. Some of these problems include political conflict and attacks on academic freedom; constraints in state funding; demographic change; equity and inclusion concerns; changes to the academic workforce; global competition; technological change and AI; and the need to address climate change and other problems facing humanity. Now is the time to engage in thoughtful, deliberative, and generative dialogue to develop new ideas for how U.S. public research universities can transform to meet more fully the demands of the 21st century and beyond. 

The forthcoming CHAE Project on Research University Futures (Project PRUF) embraces an "all hands-on deck" approach, engaging creative thinkers and leaders form around the sector to participate in thoughtful, future-oriented conversation. Initially, the Project will include three components.

1. Online public symposia with national experts in postsecondary governance and the challenges currently facing U.S. research universities. 
2. The publishing of topical white papers, building from symposia conversations.
3. Invitation-only conversations between leaders in the field to be held on Michigan State University's campus. 

Through these three components, the Future of Public Universities Project will address four themes: (1) teaching and learning amidst economic and technological change , (2) the academic profession in transition, (3) balancing competing needs via governance, policy, and finance, and (4) organizations and leadership in volatile environments.

Symposia Details

The Future of Public Research Universities Project currently plans to hold two symposia in the Spring 2025, Fall 2025, and Spring 2026 semesters. Details on the upcoming Spring 2025 sessions follow.

Symposium One: Situating public research universities in today's landscape

Wednesday, March 12, 2025 - 1:00-2:30 PM (ET)

Speakers include: 

• Dominique Baker (Associate Professor of Education & Public Policy; University of Delaware)
• Jenny J. Lee (Vice President for Arizona International, Dean of International Education, & Professor of Higher Education; University of Arizona)
• Christopher P. Long (Provost & Senior Vice President, Professor of Philosophy; University of Oregon)
• Jennifer L. Mnookin (Chancellor, Chair of Leadership, & Professor of Law; University of Wisconsin - Madison)
• Teresa K. Woodruff(President Emerita & Research Foundation Professor; Michigan State University). 

Click here to register via Zoom.

Symposium Two: Big questions for the academic profession at public research universities

Wednesday, April 30, 2025 - 12:00 (noon)-1:30 PM (ET)

Speakers include: 

• Noah Finkelstein (Professor of Physics & Co-Director of the Network of STEM Education Centers; University of Colorado), 
• Leslie D. Gonzales (Professor of Higher Education & Director of the Center for the Study of Higher Education; University of Arizona), 
• Kimberly A. Griffin (Dean of College of Education & Professor of Higher Education; University of Maryland)
• Emily Miller (Deputy Vice President for Institutional Policy; Association of American Universities).

Click here to register via Zoom.

Questions about the CHAE Project PRUF can be directed to CED.CHAE@msu.edu