SE Valley Times

Arizona State University President Michael Crow has long championed the role of universities as public service institutions that collaborate with business, government, and community organizations to address pressing societal issues. This vision is reflected in Crow's role as co-chair for a recent report by the Council on Higher Education as a Strategic Asset (HESA), titled "America’s Talent Moonshot: How the United States Can Win the Global Competition for Prosperity and Security," released on Thursday.

The report was developed over 24 months by the council, convened by the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges. It highlights the need for the United States to produce the human capital necessary for maintaining prosperity and national security. It identifies critical talent shortages in essential sectors like health care, cybersecurity and AI, education, and engineering and advocates for scalable solutions to address these gaps.

"This is our 21st-century moonshot," the report asserts. "And just like the moon landing, it will take ambition, investment and a united effort."

Several commitments are outlined in the report, emphasizing the development of talent aligned with national needs, improvement in essential competencies, and increased levels of degree and certificate attainment. It also stresses the need for increased affordability and expanded access to education.

Crow reiterated ASU's commitment to these goals, stating, "Arizona State University is committed to becoming a model for a new national service university," and highlighting ASU's leadership in areas such as public and private sector partnerships and the preparation of graduates for strategic fields.

The report also highlights priorities for future educational models, including flexible learning experiences and pathways for degree attainment. It further addresses public dissatisfaction with traditional education models, offering a blueprint for innovation, collaboration, and responsiveness to national talent needs.

"HESA-participating universities are committed to supporting America and American ideals," according to Robert King, HESA co-chair and former U.S. Assistant Secretary for Postsecondary Education. He pointed out that the global leadership once held by the U.S. is waning as other countries strategically invest in their citizens' education.

Crow emphasized the congruence of the report's recommendations with ASU's Charter, citing upcoming initiatives and partnerships that ASU will spearhead in response to HESA's final report.

"ASU will continue to lead by example, as the New American University committed to our nation’s highest priorities and ensuring our economic and national security," Crow concluded.

The full report is available for download at www.hesaus.org.