The Huffington Post – Dr. Brian C. Mitchell
“There have been a number of interesting speeches, articles, and opinions on the value of the liberal arts over the past few days. They seem to suggest a softening of the Obama Administration’s focus on student debt levels to reshape the national policy debate more on student outcomes. Embedded in these discussions is “kind of” praise for a liberal arts education. In particular, U.S. Education secretary Arne Duncan spoke to their importance, softening the blow inflicted when President Obama quipped — and quickly recanted — a comment he made on the value of art history. The Administration has steadfastly focused until now on job training, placing special emphasis on the important role played by community colleges. Secretary Duncan noted that the Administration’s concentration on new education models does not imply a lack of appreciation for residential liberal arts colleges. Mr. Duncan took a swipe at some liberal arts colleges and research universities for creating brands based on “exclusivity,” but singled out for praise Vassar and Franklin & Marshall College for their strategic commitments to increasing diversity and their work to attract low-income students.”(more)