The Aspen Institute 1d ago

Colleges have long served as pathways to opportunity and developers of talent, but amid today’s shifting demographics and political turmoil that promise is under strain. In this conversation, higher education leaders explore practical, shared approaches that can strengthen economic mobility, prepare students for meaningful work and renew higher education’s contribution to a thriving economy and a resilient democracy. The Aspen Ideas Festival is the Aspen Institute’s signature summer public event. From June 25-July 1, 2026 business and civic leaders, innovators and artists, fellows, scholars, and attendees from around the world gathered in the Rocky Mountains. Engaging discussions unified by the Festival’s theme “Declarations of Independence” explore the issues of today, challenge perceptions of the past, and shape our shared future. #AspenIdeas For more information about the Aspen Ideas Festival, visit https://www.aspenideas.org.