Ep 59. Evaluating Higher Education in America

Larry King Now season 3 episode 59 titled "Evaluating Higher Education in America" features Larry King's discussion with expert guests on the impact and importance of higher education in America. This episode delves deep into the challenges faced by students, faculty members and administrators in the higher education system in the United States.

The episode starts with Larry King introducing his panel of guests and the topic of the show. He highlights how critical it is to evaluate the current state of higher education in America, and how it can be improved to meet the needs of the present and future generations. The guests on the show bring their unique perspectives and insights regarding this critical issue.

The first guest is Andrew Rossi, a documentary filmmaker who directed the documentary "Ivory Tower". He has extensively researched and exposed the challenges faced by universities across the United States, and how they are often plagued by issues such as skyrocketing tuition fees, increasing debt, and high dropout rates. He highlights the need for reform in the system, to make education more accessible to students from all backgrounds.

Next, the show welcomes Dr. Michael Crow, the President of Arizona State University. He brings his experience and knowledge from his position as a leader of a large and successful university, and highlights the importance of innovation and agility in education. He talks about the need to adapt to the changing needs of the job market, and how his university is investing in new technologies and programs to stay ahead of the curve.

The third guest on the show is Ann Marie Gardinier Halstead, the Executive Director of the Oregon State University Foundation. She brings a unique perspective to the conversation, as the leader of a fundraising organization for higher education. She discusses the role of philanthropy in funding universities, and highlights the need for increased public-private partnerships to support higher education.

The final guest on the show is Dr. Freeman Hrabowski, the President of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He highlights the need for universities to prioritize diversity and inclusivity, and discusses his experiences in leading an institution that has been recognized for its commitment to these values. He discusses the importance of mentorship, and how it can play a crucial role in supporting students from underrepresented communities.

Throughout the episode, Larry King challenges his guests with thought-provoking questions, and encourages them to share their insights on how to improve higher education. The discussion touches on a wide range of issues, from the need for more vocational training to the role of technology in education.

In summary, "Evaluating Higher Education in America" is an informative and insightful episode of Larry King Now, that addresses one of the most critical issues facing the United States today. It features a panel of expert guests who bring different perspectives to the table, and offer valuable insights on how higher education can be improved to meet the needs of the next generation of students. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of education in America.