I approach the inauguration of a new president with a spirit of hope–hope that the programs that have helped so many will continue with renewed strength, hope that the priorities advocated by the incoming administration will be thoughtfully analyzed and implemented with a dignity that honors the needs of an entire country, and hope that these priorities will address well the goals and dreams of our diverse population.
I invite everyone to join me in making our voices heard on an issue that is vital in the continued well-being of our democracy: Educating our citizens.
In this magnificent country that is advanced in so many profound and technological ways, we must never lessen our focus on lifelong learning–a learning that is designed to stimulate the human brain from birth to death and is delivered in a multiplicity of academic avenues and non-traditional venues.
As medical innovations extend our lives and increase the aging population, it is imperative that we provide learning opportunities for our seniors and other adults so that, together, we can continue to be significant contributors to building our nation.
Unfortunately, for much of our lifetime, the vast majority of us maximize so little of our brain power. Can you imagine what could happen if we utilized our minds’ potential?
A commitment to lifelong learning is a giant step toward reaching this higher intellectual capacity. The old adage “go to college and get a good job” is no longer valid. We now must leverage learning in every way possible, every year of our lives. No person is too young or too old to experience a learning moment.
I submit that the new administration should make lifelong learning a significant priority.
As the former president of National Louis University in Evanston and Greenville College in Greenville, Ill., I understand the challenges before us. But this issue crosses all party lines, is surely bipartisan, is surely in our best interest and is surely politically correct. Godspeed, Mr. President-elect.
