Reimagining Liberal Arts Education:
A National Conversation on Real-World Readiness
Join us for the livestream event.
In an era defined by rapidly changing careers, evolving student needs, and technological transformation, liberal arts education faces a vital question: how can it remain both meaningful and relevant? On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, Brandeis University convenes a thoughtful, inclusive conversation with leading educators, policymakers, and innovators at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. Together, they’ll explore how institutions can better prepare students to thrive in the real world.
This event brings forward diverse perspectives, grounded in rigorous analysis and human experience — engaging ideas in action, not abstractions. All are invited to watch the livestream on the Brandeis website and join the conversation shaping the future of higher education.
Event Details
- When: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
- Time: 1 – 3 p.m. ET (Livestream at Brandeis.edu)
- Where: National Press Club, Washington, D.C.
For media planning on covering the event in person, email news@brandeis.edu.
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 1:00 – 1:04 p.m. | Welcome & Opening – Cynthia D. Shapira |
| 1:04 – 1:14 p.m. | “Higher Education for a New Era” – Senator Ed Markey |
| 1:15 – 1:19 p.m. | “A Liberal Arts for Tomorrow” – Arthur Levine |
| 1:20 – 2:20 p.m. | Panel Discussion: “What’s New, What’s Necessary?” moderated by Liz Willen, featuring:
|
| 2:20 – 2:45 p.m. | Audience Q&A |
| 2:45 – 2:50 p.m. | “The Student Perspective” – Rani Balakrishna ’25 |
| 2:50 – 3 p.m. | Closing Reflections |
Speakers and Moderators
President, Brandeis University — an advocate for higher education that matches liberal arts with career and civic readiness.
A leader in education policy, Senator Markey brings insight on the national stage and tomorrow’s needs in learning.
Cynthia D. Shapira — community leader, Brandeis trustee and activist driving impactful, scalable initiatives in education and Jewish philanthropy.
Editor‑in‑Chief, The Hechinger Report — thoughtful and grounded in story, leading the dialogue with clarity and purpose.
President, American Council on Education — a clear, inclusive voice for equity and innovation in colleges and universities.
President & CEO, ETS — expert in trustworthy assessment and credentialing as education adapts to real-world expectations.
President, Council of Independent Colleges, and Brandeis Board Member — champion of accessible, rigorous liberal arts grounded in real opportunity.
Public Relations Intern, Squared Communications — Brandeis graduate, former student body president, student-athlete and journalist, driving campus leadership and engagement.